According to the product leaflet and clinical sources
Herpes zoster (shingles)
Chickenpox (varicella)
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections – initial and recurrent genital and mucocutaneous herpes
Suppression of recurrent HSV, including prevention in immunocompromised patients
Oral Use:
Swallow whole with water, with or without food; maintain consistent timing each day.
Hydrate well to support kidney function and reduce risk of nephrotoxicity
Typical Adult Dosage Regimens:
Shingles (herpes zoster): 800 /mg every 4 hours, 5 times daily, for 7–10 days
Chickenpox (varicella): 800 /mg 4 times daily for ~5 days (adults and children >6 /yr)
Initial/recurrent HSV: 200 /mg 5 times daily for 5–10 days; severe cases or immunocompromised may use 400 /mg 5 times daily, or 800 /mg in suppression regimens .
Suppressive therapy: often 800 /mg daily in 2–4 divided doses (sometimes reduced to 400–600 /mg) .
Renal Impairment Adjustments:
Reduce dose/frequency based on creatinine clearance; elderly may require adjustment .
Missed Dose:
Take ASAP unless near next dose; do not double dose .
Avoid abrupt discontinuation in chronic suppressive regimens to reduce resistance or viral rebound.
Malaysia