Valtrex

valaciclovir

Valtrex is a drug used to clear away infections that result from herpes virus. Some of the common infections caused by herpes virus are genital herpes, shingles, cold sores, and chicken pox. This is an antiviral drug that is meant to slow the spread of herpes virus. This makes the body fight the infection. It is good to note that Valtrex doesn’t cure herpes but rather works by slowing down the symptoms.

Valtrex is an orally taken drug which actively fights herpes viruses. It is used to treat herpes, shingles, cold sores, and chicken pox. This drug works by inhibiting the reproduction of the viral DNA that is responsible for virus reproduction. When on its own, Valacyclovir is not active. It is administered into the body in the inactive state where it converted to acyclovir which is the active form that fights viruses. Valtrex remains active for a long time hence the ideal way of fighting viruses for a long time. This is why you need not to take it frequently.

It is good to initiate treatment with Valtrex immediately you see the symptoms of genital herpes like blisters, burning and tingling. Don’t waste time before starting to use this drug. If you use it early after spotting the symptoms, it will be effective.

Valtrex doesn’t control the spread of genital herpes. This is because herpes are contagious hence can be spread even when one is under Valtrex. It is good to avoid sexual intercourse or opt to use a condom so as to curb the spread of this virus to other people. Another good way of controlling spread is avoiding the infected area coming into contact with health people. It is not good to touch the affected area and then touch the eyes. Remember to thoroughly wash your hands often to prevent infecting other healthy people.

Of great importance is to take this medication as directed by the medical professionals. Each dose should be taken with a full glass of water. In order to ensure the kidneys are not overworked, it is recommended you take plenty of water. Valtrex can be taken on an empty stomach or when you have taken food. If you take the full dose as prescribed, you will completely do away with the symptoms of this viral infection. Some viral infections like flu or common cold cannot be treated by Valtrex.

Effective Dosage

Shingles: If you suffering from shingles you need to take 1 gram of Valtrex three time for a whole week.

For genital herpes the dose should be 1 gram two times for 10 days. This is for the first time attack. For subsequent attacks, a dose of 500 mg of Valtrex twice a day for 3 days is recommended. If you don’t want to experience reappearance of this condition, you can adapt a routine of 1 gm per day. Patients who have 10 attacks and less per year can take one 500gm tablet per day. Its effectiveness when used for long time has not been proved.

Cold sores: The normal dose for people suffering from cold sores is taking 2 gm twice a day. The time span between intakes should be 12 hours. People who are suffering from kidney problems should avoid the use of Valtrex.

If you skip to take a dose, you can take it immediately you remember. If the time you remember is close to the time of your next dose then you should skip the missed dose and get back to your normal Valtrex intake routine. It is not good to take extra medication.

Valtrex Side Effects

The use of Valtrex has been known to have several side effects. The most experienced side effects are headaches, vomiting, and nausea. Other mild side effects like diarrhea, dizziness and stomach upsets can be experienced.

Herpes virus is an infection can be passed to the baby during birth. This is why pregnant mothers are advised to prevent herpes during pregnancy so that it is not passed to the unborn child during delivery.

The lesions that arise from herpes virus should be cleaned and dried. It is good to avid wearing tight clothes as they may provoke these lesions leading to itching. Of great importance is to store Valtrex at room temperature away from reach of children.