The active ingredient in Valtrex is called valacyclovir which belongs to the family of antiviral drugs.
There are 2 types of herpes simplex virus, HSV-1 and HSV-2, and this medication treats both. Valtrex is also prescribed to treat shingles which is caused by the herpes zoster virus.
Valtrex blocks the action of a certain enzyme and prevents the virus from multiplying. While this medication is not a cure, it does halt the progression and minimizes the damage from the outbreak.
This medication comes in tablet form and is taken orally. For genital herpes, the dosage varies depending on the therapy, such as episodic-based therapy, suppressive therapy, or therapy that reduces transmission. Follow your doctor’s instructions. For the treatment of cold sores, take your prescription as soon as you feel itching or tingling around the mouth. For the treatment of shingles, patients usually take 1000mg three times per day for seven days. Try to space out the number of hours between each dose evenly in order to alleviate symptoms as quickly as possible.
Most people do not experience severe side effects but some patients may experience:
The following possible side effects should be reported to your doctor:
These may not be all the side effects of Valtrex 1000mg.
Valtrex is contraindicated for people who have a severe allergic reaction to the ingredients of this medication.
Herpes is highly contagious and care should be taken to stop the spread by person-to-person contact.
You may need a lower dose of this medication if:
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to breastfeed, discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
Store Valtrex caplets between 15°C and 30°C and away from direct heat and sunlight. Keep your medicine secure where children cannot access them. Do not take any caplets after the expiry date.
HSV-1 and HSV-2 are two types of conditions caused by the herpes simplex virus. HSV-1 is also known as cold sores, oral herpes, mouth herpes or herpes simplex labialis. HSV-2 or genital herpes causes sores around the genital area, and is spread by sexual contact.
Shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Symptoms include a stabbing pain on one side and a burning feeling that occurs before the rash appears. The rash is painful and red, with fluid-filled blisters on the torso and face. If you have had chickenpox, you can get shingles. Older people who may have a weakened immune system at at greater risk of getting shingles.
If you have been diagnosed with herpes or shingles, you may have received a prescription for Valtrex. You can order this medication from the comfort of your home and have it delivered to your door. Simply register for a free account online at YouDrugstore, where you can purchase your prescription at the same price that Canadians pay. Send us your prescription or ask the doctor to fax it to us from his or her office. After careful evaluation, our pharmacy team will send your prescription for Valtrex to your home. Ordering repeats for future flareups will be easy too. Shipping is affordable and with orders over $100, shipping is free. Order your prescription medication from YouDrugstore, a Canadian online pharmacy.