Valtrex (valaciclovir)

Effective dosage:

1-4g/day

Side effects:

• nausea
• headache
• dizziness
• tremors
• diarrhea
• abdominal pain
• tremors
• constipation

Drug Class: Herpes.

Valtrex detailed information:

Valtrex (valaciclovir) is a member of the class of medications known as antivirals. Valtrex is used to treat certain herpes infections, including herpes zoster (the painful rash known as shingles), genital herpes, and herpes cold sores on the face and lips. It is also used to treat genital herpes in patients with normal immune systems. Valaciclovir can also be used to control genital herpes outbreaks in all patients, including those with HIV. This is also known as suppressive therapy. This medication helps control symptoms, but does not cure the disease. It slows the growth and spread of the herpes virus so that the body can fight off the infection.

Valtrex disrupts the process by which the herpes virus reproduces itself and spreads to other cells in the body. This helps to keep the virus inactive, or "sleeping." It is a drug that is changed in the body to its active ingredient which is what kills the virus. Valtrex is selectively absorbed into cells infected with Herpes Simplex Virus. Within the cell Herpes Simplex Virus coded enzymes convert Valtrex into its active form. This active form of the drug inhibits the growth and replication of Herpes Simplex Virus by interfering with viral DNA replication.

It does not cure shingles, cold sores, or genital herpes, but it does help the sores to heal more quickly and it relieves pain and discomfort. When used to prevent recurrences of herpes, it also reduces the risk of transmission (spreading) of the infection to others. If you are taking Valtrex for treatment of genital herpes, it is important to follow safe sex practices to lower the chance of giving herpes to your partner, even if there are no symptoms present. When you have symptoms or are experiencing an outbreak, do not have sexual contact with your partner.

When you first start feeling the symptoms of an outbreak, the virus is already actively reproducing. Starting Valtrex at this time can stop the virus from reproducing. If you can stop the virus during this time, you may be able to stop a full-blown outbreak. Valtrex is preferentially taken up and converted into its active form only by herpes Simplex virus infected cells. Thus, Valtrex is much less toxic for normal uninfected cells.

For further information about VALTERX, consult with your doctor.