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Description
Valtrex is an oral tablet made up of a purine nucleoside antiviral drug called valacyclovir. We carry the brand choice and generic alternative of this medication in 500mgand 1000mg!
Valtrex is an antiviral medication which means it is used to treat infections caused by certain viral viruses. Children use this medication to treat chickenpox (varicella), an infection that causes small, itchy blisters, which eventually scab over. Adults typically don’t get the chickenpox, however, they may be more prone to other viral infections such as shingles (also known as herpes zoster), an infection similar to the chickenpox that is characterized by painful body rashes, caused by the same virus as chickenpox. Additionally, Valtrex can be used by both children and adults to help treat cold sores around the mouth (caused by herpes simplex), a condition where singular or multiple blister/pimple-like rashes appear on the lips.
Valtrex (valacyclovir) is effective at treating viral infections due to its capability to stop the growth of the virus causing the infection. Valtrex should not be mistaken as a cure for these infections, Valtrex may be used to help the infection heal faster, keeps new infections from occurring, and decreases pain/itching.
Directions
Only take this medication the way that your doctor has directed you too. Taking the incorrect dose can lead to unwanted side effects, ineffectiveness, or adverse interactions; avoid taking more or less of a dose than recommended or taking it for a shorter or longer period of time. For the best effect, you should begin taking Valtrex as soon as you recognize the symptoms of your condition (such as burning, tingling, or blisters); taking the medication in the following days of the first few symptoms may reduce effectiveness.
You may take this mediation with or without food, but ensure you are drinking plenty of fluids, preferably water, during the time of treatment. While taking Valtrex, ensure you are not wearing tight clothing as lesions caused by herpes should be kept as clean and dry as possible.
Store this medication at room temperature in a low risk area of moisture and heat.
Cautions
Do not use Valtrex (valacyclovir)
This product should not be used by anyone who is allergic to valacyclovir.
Do not give Valtrex to a child without the medical advice of a health care professional.
Dose adjustment or special precautions may be required
To determine if this medication is safe for you to use, tell your doctor if you have kidney disease or if you are on dialysis, HIV/AIDS or other conditions that can weaken the immune system, or if you have a history of kidney transplant or bone marrow transplant.
Risks
It has not been established if this medication will harm an unborn baby, however, herpes virus can be passed to a baby if the mother is infected and isn’t being treated properly during child birth. It is important to follow your doctors directions, especially if pregnant.
This drug can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing infant. Do not breast feed while using this medication until you have discussed the risks and benefits.
Side Effects
Common side effects of Valtrex (valacyclovir) may include:
nausea, stomach pain; headache; rash; or tired feeling.
The above side effects should not alarm you.
Serious side effects of Valtrex (valacyclovir) may include:
confusion, aggression, or you feel shaky or unsteady; hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not real); problems with speech; or a seizure (convulsions).
If you have any of the above side effects, contact your doctor right away.
Please note this is not a complete list of side effects. Not everyone experiences side effects; they are not guaranteed. If you do have side effects and they become unmanageable, consult your doctor about alternate medications.
Contact your doctor if you notice signs of…
kidney problems: little or no urinating, painful or difficult urination, swelling in your feet or ankles, feeling tired or short of breath; or
serious side effects harmful to red blood cells: fever, pale skin, unusual bleeding (nosebleeds, bleeding gums), red or pink urine, little or no urination, red spots on the skin (not related to herpes or chickenpox), feeling weak or tired, stomach pain, bloody diarrhea, vomiting, or swelling in your face, hands, or feet.
FAQs
What is Valtrex?
This medication is used to treat infections caused by certain viruses. In children, it is used to treat cold sores around the mouth and chickenpox. In adults however, it is used to treat shingles, cold sores around the mouth, and outbreaks of genital herpes. Valtrex is an antiviral drug. It stops the growth of these viruses. However, it does not cure any of these infections. But this medication does decrease the severity and length of these outbreaks. It helps any sores heal faster, and keeps new ones from forming and decreases the pain. This medication comes in 1000mg and 500mg. If you have any questions regarding this medication or any questions in general, feel free to give us a call at 1-877-385-8998.
How long do shingles last with Valtrex?
This medication is usually prescribed to be only taken for seven days, and taken 3 times a day. However it is important to start the treatment as soon as you discover any shingle symptoms. Taking the medication within 72 hours notice usually gives the best results.
How quickly does Valtrex work?
For cases such as the genital herpes, this medication does take effect very quickly and provides a level of relief within the first 2 to 3 days. Generally, the sooner you take this medication after noticing the symptoms, the faster you regain relief.
What are the side effects of Valtrex?
Some of the most common side effects for Valtrex are as follows; Headache, dizziness, tired feeling, depression, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, joint pain, menstrual pain, skin rash, stuffy nose, or a sore throat. Keep in mind that these are not the only side effects listed for this medication, these are actually only the most common ones. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this medication, please speak with your doctor.
How much does Valtrex cost?
Valtrex is part of Medicare’s Tier 2 Formulary. Tier 2 mostly consists of “non-preferred generic” medications. This means that Medicare does pay for a portion of this medication, but you may find a better price for this medication online through an Canadian Pharmacy such as My Drug Center.
Can you take Valtrex when pregnant?
Yes, it can be taken safely during a pregnancy. It is usually then prescribed as 500mg, taken twice a day by mouth. Regardless, you should speak to your doctor to see if this is correct for you, and make sure you take this medication exactly as directed to you.
How to take Valtrex for cold sores?
For the treatment of cold sores, it is recommended that you take 2 grams twice a day, which would usually be taken 12 hours apart. Therapy should also start as soon as you begin to feel any symptoms such as tingling, itching and any burning sensations. The earlier you begin to take this medication, the more effective it is against cold sores.
Who makes Valtrex?
GlaxoSmithKline is the British multinational pharmaceutical company that manufactures and markets Valacyclovir under the trade name Valtrex. This is a medication that has been approved for medical use since 1995.
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