Medications · FAQ
How does valacyclovir work against herpes viruses?
Short answer
Your body changes valacyclovir into acyclovir, an antiviral that makes it harder for herpes viruses to copy themselves. This may limit an active outbreak, but it does not remove dormant virus from the body. Results vary. Valacyclovir is not a cure, and outbreaks can return after treatment.
After you take valacyclovir, your body changes it into a medicine called acyclovir. It blocks a step that herpes viruses need to make copies of themselves. This limits viral growth during an active infection. It does not kill bacteria or treat illnesses such as a cold or the flu.
Herpes viruses can remain inactive in nerve cells between outbreaks. Valacyclovir does not remove this hidden virus. That is why symptoms can return even after you finish treatment. It also means that having no visible sores does not always mean there is no risk of spreading genital herpes.
During an outbreak, treatment may shorten symptoms or help sores heal sooner. Daily treatment may reduce how often genital herpes outbreaks happen. Results vary. The choice between short-term and daily treatment depends on the infection and your needs. A licensed physician in your state will review your symptoms, kidney health, and other medicines before choosing a treatment plan.
Sources
Written by the Verra clinical team · Medical review pending
General information, not medical advice. If you're in crisis, call or text 988.