Valtrex

Valtrex is an antiviral medication used to treat herpes simplex viruses, including genital herpes (herpes simplex strain 2, HSV-2) and cold sores (herpes simplex strain 1, HSV-1). It also treats varicella zoster virus (VZV, herpes zoster), which causes chickenpox and shingles. It is also used to prevent infections in those who are immunocompromised, including preventing CMV (cytomegalovirus) in those who’ve had organ transplants.

It is an oral prescription medicine in the form of capsules that can offer relief from unpleasant blisters within 24 hours as well as significantly reduce the duration of your outbreak. Treatment is most effective when used at the first sign of infection.

Valtrex is an antiviral drug which contains the active ingredient valaciclovir (valacyclovir hydrochloride). It is known as a prodrug meaning once ingested it is converted into aciclovir (acyclovir), its parent drug. This allows more of the active ingredient to be absorbed into the system for more effective treatment.

Valtrex specifically combats the virus by preventing a viral enzyme, known as DNA polymerase, which is responsible for the duplication of viral DNA. It thereby prevents the virus from duplicating itself and spreading from one healthy cell to another. The virus - whether it's genital herpes, cold sores and shingles – is then driven back into an inactive state quicker by the body's immune system.

When used as a preventative treatment, a steady dosage of Valtrex will successfully keep outbreaks of the viral infection at bay.

If you have previously had an allergic reaction to the active ingredient valaciclovir or similar antiviral drug aciclovir, you should not take this medication.

Valtrex is not usually recommended for pregnant women so if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or think you may be pregnant, please consult your GP for an alternative. It is also not recommended for women who are breastfeeding, as traces of valaciclovir can be found in breast milk.

Some other groups of people should take caution and should speak to a healthcare professional before using this medication, including those who:

• are 65 years or older
• have kidney problems
• have liver problems
• have a weak immune system

If you are not sure if any of the above apply to you, then you should consult with your GP before taking this medication.

At euroClinix, a 500 mg dose of Valtrex is available to purchase. However, the course of treatment will vary depending on which herpes infection you have. Dosage will also vary whether you’re treating an initial bout or a recurrence of the infection, or whether you are just preventing infection.

The generally recommended dosages for the treatment of herpes virus infections are the following:

• for the treatment of genital herpes - take one 500 mg tablet twice a day for 5 days
• for the treatment of cold sores - take four 500 mg tablets then take another 4 tablets after 12 hours, you should only take Valtrex for one day for cold sores
• for the treatment of shingles - take two 500 mg tablets 3 times daily for 7 days
• for the treatment of recurrent genital herpes and cold sores infections - take one 500 mg tablet twice daily for 3 - 5 days
• for the prevention of genital herpes and cold sores infections - take one 500 mg tablet once a day for 6-12 months

These are the typical dosages for most immunocompetent patients. However, your dosage may be adjusted if your lesions (blisters) persist and if you have a weak immune system, kidney problems or are over the age of 65.

You should always swallow tablets whole, with a glass of water. Do not crush, split or break tablets. Whilst taking Valtrex, it’s important you stay hydrated, as this can reduce the risk of renal (kidney) complications and other adverse effects.

If you forget to take Valtrex, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is nearly time for your next dose, skip your missed dose and continue the course from your next scheduled dose.

As with all prescription medications, you may experience some side effects. However, these are temporary and are mild. Common side effects include:

If you experience a sudden onset of any of the following symptoms, you may be experiencing an allergic reaction (anaphylaxis):

• skin flushing, itchy skin rash
• swelling of the lips, face, neck and throat which causes difficulty breathing
• sudden drop in blood pressure, leading to collapse

Allergic reactions are rare, but symptoms should not be ignored. You should stop taking Valtrex and seek immediate medical advice.

For a full list of side effects, including more rare and serious side effects, please refer to the patient information leaflet. It will be sent in the box with your medication, and is available to download from this page.

You should always inform your prescriber if you are taking medications. Whether you take other prescription, over-the-counter medicines or herbal supplements, they may alter the effectiveness of Valtrex.

The following medications affect kidney function, and can result in drug interactions:

• aminoglycosides - a class of antibiotics
• platinum-based chemotherapy drugs
• methotrexate - immunosuppressant used to treat cancer and autoimmune diseases
• pentamidine - used to prevent serious lung infections
• foscarnet - antiviral used to prevent CMV
• ciclosporin - immunosuppressant used treat rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, psoriasis and prevent organ rejection after transplant
• tacrolimus - immunosuppressant used to prevent organ rejection after transplant
• cimetidine - for stomach ulcers
• probenecid - for gout

If you are not sure on what medications you take, speak with your GP before taking this medication. They can also confirm if Valtrex would be suitable for you.

Valtrex 500 mg is available to purchase on prescription at euroClinix for the treatment of genital herpes, cold sores and shingles. To check you are suitable for treatment, you will have to fill out a quick and confidential medical questionnaire reviewed by one of our registered doctors. Once approved, your medication will be dispensed and dispatched discreetly to your address with next-day delivery.