Haley A. Olkiewicz, PharmD; Michelle L. Mitchell, MD; Katie M. Ray, PharmD; Evelyn M. Kuhn, PhD; Tracy N. Zembles, PharmD
WMJ. 2024;123(6):589-592.
ABSTRACT
Background: Anecdotal experience suggests efficacious valacyclovir use for neonatal herpes simplex virus (HSV) suppression, with limited published literature. The objective of this study was to evaluate HSV recurrence rates between valacyclovir and acyclovir for suppression of HSV following neonatal infection.
Methods: We conducted a single center, retrospective cohort analysis of patients less than 6 weeks old with a positive HSV polymerase chain reaction who received oral acyclovir or valacyclovir. Demographics, dosing, and recurrence rates were analyzed.
Results: Six patients received acyclovir and 13 received valacyclovir. The recurrence rate was similar in both groups.
Discussion: Valacyclovir may be an alternative to acyclovir for suppression of neonatal HSV, offering less frequent dosing and increased compliance. Larger studies are needed to confirm valacyclovir efficacy for neonatal HSV suppression.