Valacyclovir

Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on 3/28/2024

Drug Information | Side Effects | Use & Dosage | Request a Prescription

• Brand Name: Valtrex
  
• Generic Name: Valacyclovir
  
• Uses: Treatment of herpes infections, including genital herpes, cold sores, and shingles
  
• Drug Class: Antiviral
  
• Availability: Prescription only
  
• Generic Status: Yes
  
• Controlled Substance: No
  
  

Valacyclovir is an antiviral medication primarily used to treat herpes infections, including genital herpes (herpes simplex), cold sores (herpes labialis), and shingles (herpes zoster). It is also used to treat cold sores and chickenpox in children.

Note that valacyclovir will not cure shingles or genital herpes. It is used to reduce pain and to help sores heal faster.

1. Herpes infections: Valacyclovir is effective in treating herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections, reducing the severity and duration of outbreaks. It can also help alleviate symptoms like pain, itching, and burning associated with herpes.

2. Shingles (herpes zoster): Valacyclovir can speed up the healing of shingles lesions and reduce the risk of complications such as postherpetic neuralgia.

3. Chickenpox: Valacyclovir is used to treat chickenpox in children who are at least 2 years old.

4. Cold sores: Valacyclovir is also indicated to treat cold sores in teenagers who are at least 12 years old.
   
   

Valacyclovir is an antiviral drug that becomes acyclovir in the body. Acyclovir is an active antiviral drug that fights against herpes viruses. It works by keeping a virus’ DNA from multiplying. By blocking this process, valacyclovir helps control and suppress herpes outbreaks.

Note that valacyclovir is most effective when started at the first sign of an outbreak or as soon as possible after the onset of symptoms.

Valacyclovir is usually taken orally, with or without food, as directed by your healthcare provider. The dosage and duration of treatment depend on the type and severity of the herpes infection. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions carefully.

For recurrent herpes outbreaks, valacyclovir may be prescribed as a short-term or long-term treatment to prevent future episodes.

Valacyclovir can start relieving symptoms and reducing the duration of herpes outbreaks within a few days of starting treatment. However, complete healing may take longer, especially for shingles. It's important to continue taking valacyclovir as prescribed, even if symptoms improve, to prevent the virus from becoming active again.

In addition to treating herpes infections, valacyclovir may also be used off-label for conditions such as:

• Prevention of recurrent genital herpes outbreaks.
  
• Prevention of herpes transmission to sexual partners (when used in combination with safe sex practices).
  
• Management of herpes infections in immunocompromised individuals.
  
  

Discuss alternate uses of valacyclovir with your healthcare provider.

Valacyclovir is available as an oral tablet in various strengths, including 500mg and 1000mg. It is also available as an oral suspension for children. Generic versions of valacyclovir are available under different brand names.

Valacyclovir is a prescription medication. You will need a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider to get this drug.