The Efficacy of Systemic Valacyclovir (Valtrex) on Periodontitis

The experiment outlined in this proposal is designed to test the hypothesis that herpesvirus suppression by the systemic anti-herpesvirus valacyclovir (Valtrex) can significantly help to arrest the progressive course of severe marginal periodontitis in adult patients. A prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, clinical trial is employed to test this hypothesis.

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 duraExclusion 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 resorptionTooth 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.