Valacyclovir

Valacyclovir is a prescription antiviral used to treat cold sores, genital herpes, and shingles. It slows the growth of certain herpes viruses but does not cure the infection. Treatment may shorten an outbreak or ease symptoms. Results vary. A licensed physician in your state decides whether it is appropriate for you.

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.

Valacyclovir generally works best when started as early as possible after symptoms begin. For recurrent herpes, that may mean the first tingling, itching, or burning before sores appear. Results vary. Follow your prescribed plan, and seek prompt medical advice for a first outbreak, suspected shingles, or symptoms near an eye.

Take valacyclovir exactly as prescribed, with or without food. The dose and treatment length depend on your infection and kidney function. If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless it is nearly time for the next one. Skip it then; do not double your dose.

Valacyclovir can cause headache, nausea, stomach pain, or vomiting. Serious problems are less common but can include kidney injury, confusion, and severe allergic or skin reactions. Seek urgent help for trouble breathing, a blistering rash, severe confusion, or very little urine. Ask your prescriber about symptoms that persist.

People with kidney disease, dehydration, immune system problems, or an allergy to valacyclovir or acyclovir need careful medical review. Tell your physician if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding. Older adults may need dose changes based on kidney function. A licensed physician in your state decides whether treatment is appropriate.

Valacyclovir can interact with some medicines, especially those that affect kidney function. It may also interfere with certain live vaccines, including the chickenpox vaccine. Share all prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and supplements with your prescriber and pharmacist. Do not stop another medicine or delay a vaccine without medical advice.

Valacyclovir does not eliminate the risk of spreading genital herpes. Daily treatment may lower that risk for some people with genital herpes caused by HSV-2. Results vary. Avoid sexual contact during warning symptoms or outbreaks, and use condoms or other barriers. Herpes can spread even when no sores are visible.

Follow your prescribed valacyclovir schedule rather than stopping when sores improve. Some people use short courses for outbreaks; others take daily treatment for recurrent genital herpes. Daily treatment may reduce outbreaks. Results vary. Ask your prescriber before stopping, extending treatment, or switching between outbreak treatment and daily use.

You can request a valacyclovir evaluation through a Verra Health online or video visit. A licensed physician in your state reviews your information and decides whether treatment is appropriate. A prescription is not guaranteed. The current medication price is shown on the treatment page, and medication is charged only after physician approval.