You're not logged in. Please log in to earn stock or Bitcoin rewards on your prescription purchase.
valACYclovir HCl
ValACYclovir HCl (brand name: Valtrex) is an antiviral medication used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses, including herpes simplex virus (HSV), varicella-zoster virus (VZV), and cytomegalovirus (CMV). It is commonly prescribed for treating and suppressing cold sores, genital herpes, shingles, and chickenpox. ValACYclovir is a prodrug of acyclovir, meaning it converts into acyclovir in the body to exert its antiviral effects by inhibiting viral DNA replication.
Rx. Enter your prescription
How would you like to get your prescription? Select an option
Pharmacy pickup
Select from 35,000 pharmacies
Free two-day delivery
Coming soon!
Find a pharmacy near you. Enter your ZIP code
Are you a member? Sign up or log in.
Members have saved
$NaN
using our savings card for instant savings.
Don't pay full retail price and miss out on potential savings. Try it now—you have nothing to lose!
NaNM
worth of Satoshi has been rewarded to our members.
Everyone who signs up enjoys the benefits of earning FREE Bitcoin with every purchase.
How much Bitcoin can you earn with valACYclovir HCl ?
The potential for Bitcoin rewards to increase and appreciate in value is a possibility to consider, which may occur over time.
See the value of your savings today
Today's Value
1 Bitcoin = $NaN
Bitcoin (BTC)
...
USD
$NaN
Adjust Bitcoin's potential value to see how much it could be worth
Potential Value
1 Bitcoin =
Bitcoin (BTC)
...
USD
$NaN
Frequently Asked Questions
How soon should I start taking ValACYclovir for a herpes outbreak?
You should start ValACYclovir at the first sign of an outbreak (such as tingling, itching, or blisters) to achieve the best results. The sooner treatment is started, the more effective it will be.
Can I take ValACYclovir for cold sores?
Yes, ValACYclovir is commonly prescribed to treat and reduce the duration of cold sores (herpes labialis).
Can I take ValACYclovir long-term to prevent herpes outbreaks?
Yes, ValACYclovir can be used as suppression therapy for individuals who experience frequent outbreaks of genital herpes. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dose and duration of therapy.
Can ValACYclovir be used during pregnancy?
ValACYclovir may be used during pregnancy when prescribed by a healthcare provider, particularly to prevent herpes outbreaks that could affect the baby. Discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.
Does ValACYclovir cure herpes?
No, ValACYclovir does not cure herpes. It helps to manage and reduce the severity of symptoms and the frequency of outbreaks, but the herpes virus remains in the body.
Comprehensive Drug Guide
How Does valACYclovir HCl Work?
ValACYclovir works by converting into acyclovir in the body, which then interferes with the herpes virus' ability to replicate. Acyclovir inhibits viral DNA polymerase, preventing the virus from multiplying and spreading. This action helps reduce the severity and duration of symptoms and can also help prevent future outbreaks when used as a suppressive therapy.
What is valACYclovir HCl Used For?
Common Dosages
- 500 mg oral tablets.
- 1,000 mg (1 gram) oral tablets.
Typical Dosing
- Cold sores (herpes labialis): 2,000 mg (2 grams) every 12 hours for 1 day (total of two doses).
- Genital herpes (initial outbreak): 1,000 mg twice daily for 10 days.
- Genital herpes (recurrence): 500 mg twice daily for 3 days.
- Genital herpes (suppression therapy): 500 mg to 1,000 mg once daily, depending on frequency of outbreaks.
- Shingles: 1,000 mg three times daily for 7 days.
- Chickenpox (in children): 20 mg/kg three times daily for 5 days (maximum of 1,000 mg per dose).
Typical Dosing
FDA Approved Indications
- Treatment of cold sores (herpes labialis) in adults.
- Treatment and suppression of genital herpes in adults.
- Treatment of shingles (herpes zoster) in adults.
- Treatment of chickenpox in children aged 2 to 18.
- Prevention of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection following organ transplantation.
Off-Label Uses
Who Shouldn't Take valACYclovir HCl?
- Known hypersensitivity or allergy to valACYclovir, acyclovir, or any of the components of the medication.
- Severe kidney disease without dose adjustment, as accumulation of the drug can increase the risk of side effects.
Advice From The Pharmacist
- Take ValACYclovir exactly as prescribed, and complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished.
- Start treatment as soon as you notice symptoms of herpes (such as tingling or itching) for best results.
- Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, especially if you are taking ValACYclovir for an extended period, to reduce the risk of kidney side effects.
- Store the medication at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
Side Effects of valACYclovir HCl
Common Side Effects
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness
- Abdominal pain
Uncommon/Severe Side Effects
- Kidney problems (reduced urine output, swelling, or fatigue)
- Confusion or hallucinations (more common in elderly patients or those with kidney issues)
- Thrombocytopenic purpura (a rare blood disorder) in immunocompromised patients
Risks and Warnings of valACYclovir HCl
- Kidney Function: ValACYclovir can cause kidney damage, especially in patients with pre-existing kidney disease or those taking high doses. Kidney function should be monitored regularly in these patients, and dose adjustments may be necessary.
- CNS Effects: ValACYclovir can cause neurological side effects such as confusion, agitation, or hallucinations, particularly in elderly patients or those with renal impairment. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience these symptoms.
- Hydration: It is important to stay hydrated while taking ValACYclovir, as dehydration increases the risk of kidney problems, especially at higher doses.
Interactions with valACYclovir HCl
Common Drug Interactions
- Nephrotoxic drugs (e.g., NSAIDs, aminoglycosides): Concurrent use with ValACYclovir may increase the risk of kidney damage.
- Probenecid: This medication can increase blood levels of ValACYclovir by reducing its excretion, potentially increasing the risk of side effects.
- Immunosuppressants (e.g., mycophenolate mofetil, cyclosporine): These can increase the risk of kidney problems when used with ValACYclovir, especially in transplant patients.
Alternatives to valACYclovir HCl
- Acyclovir: The active form of ValACYclovir, acyclovir is also used to treat herpes infections but requires more frequent dosing.
- Famciclovir: Another antiviral used to treat herpes simplex and shingles infections, with a similar dosing schedule to ValACYclovir.
- Penciclovir: A topical antiviral used to treat cold sores (herpes labialis).
