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Valacyclovir

The active ingredient in Valtrex

Valacyclovir is an antiviral medication that can slow the spread and growth of the herpes virus. Valacyclovir is FDA-approved to treat viral infections including cold sores and genital herpes. Available in episode-based therapy or off-label suppressive therapy.

Valacyclovir
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What is Valacyclovir?

Valacyclovir is a prescription antiviral medicine. Valacyclovir is the ingredient in the brand name medication Valtrex. Valacyclovir lowers the ability of herpes viruses to multiply in your body. Valacyclovir may be prescribed for cold sores, shingles, genital herpes, or chickenpox.

General information about Valacyclovir

It is very important to maintain adequate hydration while taking this medication to maintain proper kidney function. Medicines are sometimes prescribed for conditions that are not mentioned in the patient information. Do not use Valacyclovir for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give Valacyclovir to other people, even if they have the same symptoms you have.

What are the common side effects of Valacyclovir?

The common side effects of Valacyclovir are: Headache, nausea, stomach pain, vomiting, and dizziness. Side effects in HIV-infected adults include headache, tiredness, and rash. These side effects are usually mild and do not cause patients to stop taking Valacyclovir.

Frequently asked questions

How should I take Valacyclovir?

Take Valacyclovir exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Your dose of Valacyclovir and length of treatment will depend on the type of herpes infection that you have and any other medical problems that you have. Do not stop valacyclovir or change your treatment without talking to your healthcare provider. Valacyclovir can be taken with or without food. You should start treatment as soon as possible after your symptoms start during episodic therapy. If you miss a dose of Valacyclovir take it as soon as you remember and then take your next dose at its regular time. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, do not take the missed dose. Wait and take the next dose at the regular time. Do not take more than the prescribed number of Valacyclovir each day.

How should I store Valacyclovir tablets?

Store Valacyclovir tablets at room temperature, 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C). Keep Valacyclovir tablets in a tightly closed container. Do not keep medicine that is out of date or that you no longer need. Keep Valacyclovir and all medicines out of the reach of children.

What should I tell my doctor before taking Valacyclovir?

Tell your doctor all of your medical conditions, medications and supplements that you take, if you have had a bone marrow or kidney transplant, if you have HIV or AIDS, if you have kidney problems, if you are 65 year of age or older, if you are pregnant, planning on becoming pregnant, or breastfeeding.

How long until I may see an effect from Valacyclovir?

If you are taking Valacyclovir to help an existing cold sore, you may notice that the sore clears about 1 day sooner with the use of the medication. These results may change depending on how close to the onset of the cold sore the medication was started. If you are taking Valacyclovir to prevent cold sores, you may notice an overall reduction in occurrences once treatment starts.

What is the important safety information about this product?

See the detailed safety information under the Safety Info tab for the product.

How much does the online visit cost?

The online doctor’s visits are typically complementary. With Strut, you will only pay for the prescription if you qualify after your medical consultation. If after checking out, the doctor identifies that you are not a good candidate for treatment, you will not be charged. If you decide to transfer your prescription at any time to a non-preferred pharmacy of Strut Health, then you will be charged a $40 physician consultation fee to your credit card on file. Customer service can provide additional details on our pharmacy network.

How much does the medication cost?

The cost varies, the price is listed on the product page of the website. Prices at local pharmacies or online are often higher than what we offer. We keep our prices very competitive, as well as offering free visits and shipping.

Do I need to take a photo?

Yes, your photographs will help us to accurately diagnose the cause of your medical condition and prescribe the most effective medication regimen. It is very important that we have clear photographs. Our site is mobile-friendly and simple to upload pictures.

What is episodic vs. suppressive Valacyclovir therapy?

Valacyclovir can be used as an episodic therapy or suppressive therapy to treat genital herpes. As an episodic therapy, valacyclovir can treat an individual breakout as it occurs, if the treatment is started within one day of noticing symptoms. As suppressive therapy, valacyclovir is taken on a daily basis to help keep breakouts from occurring. This is often recommended for people who experience frequent or severe recurrences or would like to reduce the risk of transmission to a sexual partner. Valacyclovir is not FDA-approved for suppressive therapy of cold sores, it is considered off-label use. A licensed physician will evaluate you and determine if either approach is appropriate for you.

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