Valacyclovir is an antiviral many doctors reach for when treating shingles, genital herpes, and cold sores. It’s a prodrug that turns into acyclovir in your body and stops the virus from copying itself. If you’ve been prescribed valacyclovir, this page helps you understand why it’s used, typical dosing, common side effects, and practical safety tips so you know what to watch for.
Valacyclovir works by blocking viral DNA replication. That helps your immune system get the upper hand and shortens how long an outbreak lasts. Typical uses include:
- Shingles (herpes zoster): shortens pain and rash when started early. - Genital herpes: used for initial outbreaks, to treat recurrences, and sometimes as daily suppression. - Cold sores: can reduce healing time and pain if taken at the first sign.
Starting treatment within 48–72 hours of symptoms usually gives the best results. If you wait longer, the benefit drops.
Dosage depends on the problem and whether it’s a first episode, a recurrence, or suppression. Here are common regimens you might see, but always follow your prescriber’s instructions:
- Shingles: commonly 1 g three times daily for 7 days. - Initial genital herpes: often 1 g twice daily for about 10 days. - Recurrent genital herpes: options include 500 mg twice daily for 3 days or 1 g once daily for 5 days, depending on the plan. - Suppressive therapy: often 1 g once daily for people with frequent recurrences. - Cold sores: some regimens use 2 g twice in one day (taken 12 hours apart).
Common side effects are mild: headache, nausea, stomach pain, and sometimes dizziness. Serious problems are rare but include kidney issues and, in people with poor kidney function, confusion or hallucinations. Drink plenty of water while on the drug and tell your doctor if you have kidney disease so they can lower the dose.
Drug interactions can matter. Drugs that affect kidney elimination (for example, probenecid or some immunosuppressants) can raise acyclovir levels. Always share a full list of medicines with your provider.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: valacyclovir is used when needed, but you should discuss risks and benefits with your clinician. Don’t stop or start meds without talking to them.
Want to buy valacyclovir online? Use a reputable pharmacy, check for a valid prescription requirement, and avoid suspiciously cheap sellers. If symptoms are severe, spreading, or if you have a weak immune system, contact a healthcare professional right away.
Short, practical takeaway: start treatment early, follow the exact dose your prescriber gives, stay hydrated, and speak up about kidney problems or unusual mental changes. That’s the simplest way to get the benefit and avoid trouble.
