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Valtrex tablets are a medication used to treat the herpes virus. The tablets come in 500mg and 1000mg dosages and are generally taken twice a day. Valtrex is the brand name for valacyclovir, an antiviral drug that works by stopping the herpes virus from multiplying. Valtrex can also help to shorten the duration of an outbreak if it is taken as soon as symptoms develop. They should be taken by mouth, with or without food. Valtrex tablets work best when started as soon as possible after the first signs of a herpes infection. For best results, continue taking them for the entire course of treatment, even if symptoms disappear. Do not stop taking Valtrex tablets without consulting your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take more than one dose at a time. Store Valtrex tablets at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
The active ingredient in Valtrex tablets, valacyclovir, is a synthetic nucleoside analogue. It works by interfering with the viral replication process, which stops the virus from spreading. They do this by blocking an enzyme called DNA polymerase, which is essential for the virus to replicate. Valacyclovir is also converted to acyclovir, which is a further powerful antiviral agent. By stopping the virus from replicating, Valtrex tablets can help to clear up an infection more quickly. In addition, Valtrex tablets may also help to reduce the risk of developing herpes lesions in people who have been infected with HSV-1 or HSV-2 in the past.
It is important to take Valtrex tablets exactly as prescribed by your doctor, to get the most benefit from them.
The active ingredient in Valtrex is valaciclovir hydrochloride.
The inactive ingredients are Magnesium Stearate, Macrogol, Microcrystalline cellulose, Silica colloidal anhydrous, Polysorbate, Crospovidone, Povidone, Hypromellose, Titanium dioxide, among others.
Side effects include:
Contact your healthcare provider if you experience severe side effects.
1. How long does it take for Valtrex to work?
Improvement in symptoms typically begins within 2-3 days, with complete resolution depending on the type of infection being treated.
2. Can Valtrex prevent future herpes outbreaks?
Yes, Valtrex is often prescribed to prevent future outbreaks of genital herpes or cold sores, reducing the frequency of recurrences.
3. How should I take Valtrex?
The dosage depends on the condition. For example, for shingles, it is usually 1000mg three times daily for 7 days. For genital herpes, it’s 500mg twice daily.
4. Is Valtrex safe during pregnancy?
Valtrex is not typically recommended during pregnancy. Always consult your doctor to weigh the benefits and risks.
5. What should I do if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it’s close to your next scheduled dose. Never double up on doses.