Valtrex

What is Valtrex?

Valtrex is an antiviral treatment for the herpes simplex virus (HSV). Valtrex contains the active ingredient valaciclovir and comes as 500mg tablets.

You can get a private prescription for Valtrex online from Prescription Doctor's UK pharmacy following a quick consultation with one of our online doctors. To begin your order, press the green button above.

Generic valaciclovir is also available from our online pharmacy.

What is herpes?

Herpes is a sexually transmitted infection which causes blisters and sores around the affected areas. After the first herpes breakout, the virus stays in an inactive state within the body’s central nervous system.

It is estimated that more than two thirds of adults have herpes in the United Kingdom. It's possible to carry the virus unknowingly.

The two herpes strains, HSV-1 and HSV-2, can be transmitted by physical contact or sharing of cups and cutlery.

HSV-2 is more commonly associated with genital herpes and is typically spread through skin-to-skin contact of the genitals. HSV-1, the strain more associated with cold sores, can also cause genital herpes if the cold sore comes into contact with another person’s genitals during oral sex.

Symptoms of herpes include:

• Blisters or sores around the genitals or anus
• Cold sores around the mouth
• Itching or burning sensation around the genitals
• Pain when urinating
• Vaginal discharge in women

Herpes is a life-long condition which can cause future breakouts. Unfortunately, there is no cure for herpes yet. The aim of the treatment is to reduce the severity of symptoms during outbreaks, and assist the body's natural immune system to fight the virus.

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How does Valtrex work?

The medicine contains valaciclovir that, once ingested, is metabolised into aciclovir. This agent prevents the virus from producing the proteins it needs to multiply so that the immune system can fight the infection faster, improving the symptoms quickly.

Valtrex can treat both initial and future outbreaks of herpes, but it cannot prevent herpes from being spread from one person to another.

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How to take Valtrex?

To treat genital herpes, the typical dose is one 500 mg tablet taken twice daily for five days. The doctor may ask you to take it for ten days.

Recurrent infections are normally treated with a three to five-day course of Valtrex. Always follow the instruction of the doctor.

Swallow your Valtrex tablets with a glass of water. While taking this medicine, remember to drink plenty of water regularly to reduce the event of side effects.

Do not crush or chew Valtrex tablets.

Read the patient information leaflet supplied with your medicine for information about how to take Valtrex.

What should I do if I forget to take Valtrex when I should?

If you forget to take Valtrex when you should, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the forgotten dose and take your next dose at the usual time.

Do not take more Valtrex tablets to make up for the dose you missed.

What should I do if I take more Valtrex than I should?

If you or someone else takes more Valtrex tablets than you should, seek urgent medical attention by going straight to your nearest hospital's accident and emergency department. Remember to take the packaging and any remaining tablets with you so that doctors treating you know exactly what you have taken.

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Valtrex side effects and cautions

All medications carry the risk of side effects, though not everybody experiences them.

It's important to educate yourself on the possible side effects of all medicines you are taking.

Always read the enclosed patient information leaflet before beginning your treatment.

You can read the patient information leaflet for Valtrex online.

Some common side effects of Valtrex include:

• Diarrhoea
• Dizziness
• Feeling sick
• Headache
• Itching
• Rash
• Sensitivity to sunlight
• Vomiting

Some uncommon side effects of Valtrex include:

• Agitation
• Confusion
• Hallucinations
• Tiredness
• Tremors

Some rare side effects include:

• Altered brain function
• Convulsions
• Delirium
• Lack of coordination
• Slow, slurred speech
• Unconsciousness

Not everybody experiences side effects associated with their medication. If you are concerned about any of the above side effects, speak to your doctor.

Valtrex can have an effect on the nervous system in people with kidney problems, organ transplant patients and the elderly. Side effects generally subside when reducing dosage or stopping treatment.

What should I do if I experience an allergic reaction to Valtrex?

If you experience an allergic reaction to the medicine, stop taking Valtrex immediately and seek medical attention.

Can I take Valtrex if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, speak to your doctor first before taking Valtrex. Your doctor would be able to advise you on how to safely take Valtrex while pregnant or breastfeeding.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Valtrex?

You should avoid drinking alcohol when taking Valtrex as it can make the side effects of the medicine worse.

Can I drive and operate machinery when taking Valtrex?

It is important to see how Valtrex affects you before you attempt to drive or operate machinery.

If you notice any side effects of taking Valtrex which may impact your concentration, such as drowsiness, dizziness, fatigue or visual disturbances, avoid driving or operating machinery until you feel it is safe to do so.

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Table of contents

What is Valtrex?

How does Valtrex work?

How to take Valtrex?

Valtrex side effects and cautions