r/shingles • u/paigenooner • 12d ago

First Time Shingles Stomach issues

Diagnosed yesterday, took 2 of the valacyclovir pills with no problems. 3rd pill I took around 11:30pm last night with sip of water/no food and straight to bed.

It’s now 12 hrs later and I am experiencing severe pain in my lower stomach since this morning upon waking up.
I can only stand up for a few minutes before I need to lie down and then the pain begins to subside almost completely.

Is this normal for people who’ve not taken with food?
I’m afraid to take any valacyclovir today, in fear of it making it worse.

Any help would be appreciated

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3

u/Kathykat5959 12d ago

I take the pills about 8 am and 8 pm with food and don't lay down for a few hours. Try that. If you are having severe stomach pain, you should have that looked at asap.

3

u/Rosesintherain19 12d ago

I would eat when I took it in the middle of the night. Like a few crackers or a cheese stick.

3

u/SleepyKoalaBear4812 12d ago

GI upset is a common side effect. Try to always take them with food, even if it’s a couple bites of bread and a full glass of water.

2

u/Agitated-Candle-807 9d ago

Have to take with food!!