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Product info
Valaciclovir is a tablet treatment that is used to clear cold sores.
- It’s a generic version of Valtrex, and works in a similar way to stop symptoms.
- You usually take four tablets at the onset of symptoms, and another four 12 hours later.
- 500mg
- 10 Tablets £51.95
- Prices include:Express shipping
24 hour shipping by secure courier.
- Consultation + Access to our clinicians
Ask our experts anything you like, any time you want.
- Total
£51.95Save £0.00 each order
What is Valaciclovir?
Valaciclovir is a medication you can take to help stop the symptoms of cold sores and genital herpes. The virus that causes these skin conditions is known as herpes simplex, and one of its main effects is that it causes blisters on the skin. These can make you feel self-conscious, but there are treatments available to help you.
Taking Valaciclovir when you first get symptoms means that you can tackle the virus and ensure that any discomfort is minimised.
How does Valaciclovir work?
Valaciclovir is the generic name for a branded medication called Valtrex, and it’s also the name of the main active ingredient in the medication. Both tablets do exactly the same job. Because it’s a generic treatment, Valaciclovir is usually cheaper than Valtrex.
Valaciclovir stops the enzymes that the herpes simplex virus creates from multiplying, and reduces the severity of your outbreak. It stops the infection from spreading too. It works best if you take it as soon as you notice any symptoms surfacing.
What doses of Valaciclovir are there?
There’s only one standard dose of Valaciclovir and that’s 500mg. You may take different amounts of tablets depending on whether you’re being treated for cold sores or genital herpes.
If you’ve got any questions about the dose, or find it’s not working for you, we’ll be happy to talk to you about alternative treatments.
How we source info.
When we present you with stats, data, opinion or a consensus, we’ll tell you where this came from. And we’ll only present data as clinically reliable if it’s come from a reputable source, such as a state or government-funded health body, a peer-reviewed medical journal, or a recognised analytics or data body. Read more in our editorial policy.
How to take Valaciclovir
Always take Valaciclovir as directed by our clinician.
- If you’re taking it for symptoms of cold sores, take four tablets at the onset of symptoms and then another four tablets 12 hours later. This is usually a one day treatment.
- If you’re taking it for the symptoms of genital herpes, take one tablet twice a day for ten days after your initial diagnosis and outbreak. If you’re treating a recurrence then take one tablet twice a day for five days.
- Some people with HSV also take Valaciclovir to prevent an outbreak. Tell us about your health and our experts will give you the advice you need.
Take your tablets with a drink of water. They can be taken with or without food. If you miss a dose, it’s really important that you don’t take an extra one to make up for it.[1] Simply take your next dose at the right time and then carry on as normal.
How long does it take Valaciclovir to work?
Treatment time for the symptoms of cold sores and genital herpes can vary from person to person, and depends on how severe your infection is. Catching the outbreak at the first stages and starting treatment as soon as possible helps to get it under control quicker.
Once you start treatment, it should become effective within five days. If you think the treatment isn’t working as well as it should then you should send our clinician a message, and they can give you advice on the next steps.
What should I do if I make a mistake when using Valaciclovir?
If you miss a dose then take it as soon as you remember, and then carry on as normal. Don’t take two doses at once to make up for a missed tablet.
Don’t take more than the prescribed dose. If you’ve taken too much Valaciclovir by accident then you should go to hospital and take the medication packet with you.
Treated trusted sources:
- patient.info. (n.d.). Valaciclovir for viral infections – Valtrex. Side effects; dosage. [online]
How we source info.
When we present you with stats, data, opinion or a consensus, we’ll tell you where this came from. And we’ll only present data as clinically reliable if it’s come from a reputable source, such as a state or government-funded health body, a peer-reviewed medical journal, or a recognised analytics or data body. Read more in our editorial policy.
FAQ: Valaciclovir
Have something specific you want to know? Search our info below, or ask our experts a question if you can’t find what you’re looking for.
How is Valaciclovir different to other treatments for herpes?
Is Valaciclovir similar to any other treatments?
Which dose of Valaciclovir should I use?
How effective is Valaciclovir?
Do I need a prescription for Valaciclovir?
Treated trusted sources:
- MedicineNet. (n.d.). Valtrex (valacyclovir) vs. Famvir (famciclovir): Herpes Drug Side Effects. [online]
- NHS Choices (2019). Genital Herpes. [online]
- www.medicines.org.uk. (n.d.). Valaciclovir 500 mg film-coated tablets – Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) – (emc). [online]
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Cold sores (herpes simplex): Here are our other options.
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Further reading
Take a look at our helpful health guides related to cold sores (herpes simplex).
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