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as a clinical pharmacist, the claims made by the authors of the study are slightly disingenuous. There is considerable controversy over whether it is appropriate to give Valacyclovir (Valtrex) during pregnancy. While there is a risk of transmission of the herpes virus to the newborn during a vaginal delivery, there is also great unknown as to the potential effects of the valacyclovir on the fetus. Careful and prudent testing of medications during pregnancy is extremely important to prevent tragedies such that occured when Thalidomide (Thalomid) was used without proper and conclusive testing.
Valacyclovir is currently regarded as a Pregnancy Category B drug, meaning there are no well designed trials to establish its safety. Thus, it is entirely etical and prudent to design a study where some of the patients are on placebo in an attempt to determine the risks and benefits associated with treatment.
I am an avid Salon reader, but I feel this story was not adequately researched before being published. I see not even the barest mention that the authors of the study were even contacted for a response. Let's not lose sight of good scientific and journalistic standards in our rush to muckrake.
