The Efficacy of Systemic Valacyclovir (Valtrex) on Periodontitis

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · Jan 25, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying whether a medication called valacyclovir (also known as Valtrex), which is usually used to treat herpes infections, can help improve severe gum disease known as periodontitis. Researchers believe that by reducing the herpesvirus, valacyclovir may help slow down the progression of this dental condition in adults. The trial is currently recruiting participants aged 18 and older who are generally healthy and have noticeable gum disease, specifically those with certain types of deep gum pockets.

Eligible participants will be randomly assigned to receive either the medication or a placebo (a pill with no active ingredients) without knowing which one they are getting. This helps ensure the results are reliable. It's important to note that individuals with certain health issues, such as those affecting the immune system, smokers, or pregnant women, cannot take part in the study. Participants will be closely monitored throughout the trial to assess the effects of the treatment on their gum health.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Patients must be systemically healthy, Class I dental category.
• • Involved teeth must have periodontal disease detectible by periodontal examination.
• • Subjects with deep vertical periodontal lesions (\>6 mm) showing no radiographic crestal alveolar lamina dura
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Presence of any disease or medication that alters the immune system or interferes with healing ability Smokers (more than 10 cigarettes per day)
• • External or internal tooth resorption
• • Tooth perforation from the pulp cavity through the tip of the root exposing the tissue to material in the oral cavity.
• • Pregnant or nursing mothers because hormonal factors may influence the condition.
• • Allergies or adverse reactions to valacyclovir.
• • Patients under the age of 18.
• • Patients with renal impairment or reduced renal function.
• • Patients requiring hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis.