Do you use valacyclovir as stepdown therapy for HSV CNS infections including encephalitis?

Yes. After initial improvement on IV acyclovir, I will typically transition to oral acyclovir at high doses to complete therapy.

Assuming no impairment of GI absorption and correct dosing, oral valacyclovir achieves therapeutic levels in the CNS.

I have done this in selected patients who could not or did not wish to remain in the hospital for the full 14–21 days of IV acyclovir. For HSV meningitis, stepping down to oral valacyclovir after clinical improvement is an accepted approach. HSV encephalitis is different: IV acyclovir for 14–21 days...