Is Valacyclovir Safe During Pregnancy

Status

caution Last reviewed: 2026-05-16 · Confidence: moderate

Reason

Limited pregnancy data; official labeling says use only if benefit justifies risk. Consult your prescriber.

Drug Information

Brand Name
Valtrex
Generic Name
valacyclovir
Drug Class
antiviral (herpes virus nucleoside analog)
FDA Category
N/A (PLLR narrative label)
Rx Status
prescription

Safe Amount

Dosage must be determined by your provider based on individual risk/benefit.

Effects

Pregnancy
Untreated herpes simplex in pregnancy can increase fetal/newborn risk; neonatal HSV risk is highest with late-pregnancy acquisition.
Mother
May help treat herpes infections; untreated herpes can cause maternal complications and transmission risk.
Baby
No drug-associated increase in major birth defects has been identified in available human data, but data are limited.

Trimester Notes

1st Trimester
Available human data have not identified a drug-associated increase in major birth defects, but data are limited.
2nd Trimester
Human data are limited; use only when the expected benefit outweighs the risk.
3rd Trimester
Late pregnancy genital HSV can raise neonatal infection risk; provider may consider suppressive therapy near delivery.

Risk-Benefit Note

For antivirals, the benefit of treating herpes and reducing complications may outweigh the limited fetal risk. Do not stop or continue without provider guidance.

Conditions & Warnings

  • Consult OB/GYN or prescriber
  • Do not stop or start without provider guidance
  • Herpes simplex infection
  • Genital herpes in pregnancy
  • Recurrent herpes suppression near delivery may be considered by the provider

Alternatives

  • Acyclovir (provider-directed)
  • Supportive care and prompt OB/GYN review

References

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