Valtrex: What It Does and How to Use It

Valtrex (valacyclovir) is an antiviral many people use for herpes simplex (cold sores, genital herpes), shingles, and sometimes chickenpox. It won’t cure a virus, but it helps shorten outbreaks, ease symptoms, and lower the chance of spreading the virus to others.

Want a quick win? Start treatment as soon as you notice the first tingle, bump, or rash. The drug works best early on.

Common Uses and Typical Doses

Here are the usual adult dosing patterns you’ll hear from doctors (always follow your prescriber):

- Genital herpes, first episode: 1 g twice daily for 7–10 days.
- Genital herpes, recurrent: options include 500 mg twice daily for 3 days or 1 g twice daily for 1 day, depending on the situation.
- Suppressive therapy (to prevent recurrences): often 500 mg to 1 g once daily.
- Shingles (herpes zoster): 1 g three times daily for 7 days.
- Chickenpox in adults: commonly 1 g three times daily for 5 days.

If you have kidney problems, doses usually need lowering. Don’t guess—ask your doctor or pharmacist to adjust the dose for your kidney function.

Side Effects, Safety Tips, and Drug Interactions

Most people tolerate Valtrex well. Expect mild side effects like headache, nausea, stomach pain, or dizziness. Drink plenty of water while taking it—staying hydrated helps protect your kidneys.

Watch for more serious signs: confusion, severe skin rash, sudden changes in urination, or swelling. These require urgent medical attention, especially in older adults or people with kidney disease.

Tell your prescriber about other medicines you take. Drugs that affect the kidneys or immune system can change how Valtrex behaves. Probenecid and some other medications may raise levels of valacyclovir; your provider will know what to check.

Wondering about pregnancy or breastfeeding? Talk to your doctor—there are situations where antivirals are recommended, but you need personalized advice.

Thinking of buying Valtrex online? Use care. Only purchase from pharmacies that require a prescription, list a physical address, and offer a licensed pharmacist contact. Avoid sites that sell prescription drugs without asking for a prescription or that offer huge discounts with no verifiable credentials.

Quick checklist for safe online buying: prescription required, visible license info, clear contact details, secure checkout (look for HTTPS), and recent user reviews. If anything looks shady, don’t risk it—call your clinic or use a known pharmacy.

If you have questions about dosing, side effects, or interactions, call your prescriber or pharmacist. They can tailor advice to your health, current meds, and kidney function so Valtrex works safely and effectively for you.