Can valacyclovir tablets be cut in half? (+5 precautions)

In this article, we will discuss whether valacyclovir tablets can be cut in half or not. We will further discuss the conditions that need to be considered before cutting valacyclovir tablets in half.

Can valacyclovir tablets be cut in half?

Valacyclovir tablets can be cut in half under your doctor’s recommendation. There may be certain conditions or circumstances under which your doctor may suggest you take valacyclovir tablets in half.

Valacyclovir is an antiviral medication used to treat many viral infections caused by different species including herpes viruses. Valacyclovir may not completely cure the viral infection but it helps get rid of the itching, redness, and pain (1).

All medications are usually prescribed at doses that are conventionally and easily available for use. However, due to any variation, a tablet may be cut in half to meet the individual patient requirement (2).

If you find difficulty in swallowing the entire valacyclovir tablet at once, then you might discuss it with your doctor about splitting it in half. They may suggest proper ways of splitting or some alternative dosage forms or formulations of valacyclovir for your health.

What are the risks of cutting valacyclovir tablets in half?

Some of the following risks must be attached to cutting valacyclovir tablets in half:

• If the tablets are not scored, then cutting them in half may result in uneven division leading to inaccurate dosing.
• Cutting valacyclovir tablets in half may also alter the absorption of the medication resulting in changes in the efficacy of valacyclovir.
• The integrity of extended-release or coated valacyclovir tablets may be compromised by cutting them in half.
• There is an increased risk of contamination by cutting valacyclovir tablets in half.

However, it is important to note that you must always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist before cutting valacyclovir tablets in half to avoid any potential risks or low therapeutic effects of the medication.

What precautions to take before cutting valacyclovir in half?

The following precautions must be taken before cutting valacyclovir tablets in half (2):

• Consult healthcare provider- Before making any changes to your dosage or formulation, you must always discuss your concerns with your doctor and take the relevant steps under your doctor’s supervision.

• Use a pill cutter- For cutting valacyclovir tablets in half, you must use a pill cutter to ensure an even split of the tablet that does not interfere with the medication dosage and prevents the tablet from crumbling or crushing.

• Check for scored tablets- Use tablets with a score line that indicates that the tablet can be evenly divided from a scored line without an uneven division.

• Be mindful of sanitary conditions- For splitting a tablet in half, you must always ensure sanitation. Always wash hands and wear gloves before splitting the tablet to avoid contamination.

• Patient counseling- Patients must be properly counseled regarding the use of taking half tablets and dosage division.

What are the alternatives to cutting valacyclovir in half?

Some alternatives to cutting valacyclovir tablets in half can be as follows:

• Switching to a liquid formulation of valacyclovir such as a syrup or suspension.
• Go for your required dosage strength tablet instead of taking a bigger strength and then spitting it in half.
• Get your required medication compounded in a compounding pharmacy according to your prescribed dosage.

However, always discuss with your healthcare provider about your concerns and switch to other formulations. Do not go for self-adjustment of medication as it may cause potential health risks.

In my experience

Based on my experience as a pharmacist, I would recommend you consult your healthcare provider if you are facing difficulty in swallowing the given tablet dose.

You must discuss crushing or cutting your tablet in half. You must also openly outweigh the possible risks and benefits attached to taking valacyclovir in half. If your doctor allows then you can safely cut your tablet in half and take the recommended dosage.

References