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ANTIVIRAL WHO Essential Verified Rx Required

Valacyclovir

Also known as:Valtrex "Valtrex"
2 Protocols
2 views
Find Where Available

Primary Use

Treatment and suppression of herpes infections.

Also Used For:

Shingles
Cold sores
Herpes suppression

Drug Classification

Medication Type
ANTIVIRAL
Drug Class
Nucleoside analogue prodrug

Dosage & Administration

Standard Dosage
500mg-1g
Frequency
Once or twice daily
Duration
3-10 days for outbreaks, long-term for suppression
Route
ORAL
Best Time
Same time each day
Important
Full glass of water

Available Forms

Dosage Forms

TABLETCAPSULE

Available Strengths

500mg1g
Appearance
Blue caplet

Effectiveness

Success Rate
Similar to acyclovir with better bioavailability
Cross-resistance with acyclovir. Rare in immunocompetent individuals.

Treatment Protocols

Herpes - Daily Suppressive Therapy

For: HERPES_SIMPLEX

First-Line
Dosage
500mg
Frequency
Once daily
Duration
Ongoing (typically 1 year minimum)
Reduces outbreaks by 70-80%. Reduces transmission by ~50%.

Herpes - Episodic Treatment

For: HERPES_SIMPLEX

First-Line
Dosage
1g (1000mg)
Frequency
Twice daily
Duration
1 day
Reduces outbreak duration by 1-2 days

Safety Information

Common Side Effects

HeadacheNauseaAbdominal painDizziness

Serious Side Effects (Seek Medical Help)

Kidney problems
Neurological effects
Blood disorders

Contraindications (Do Not Use If)

Valacyclovir allergy
Severe kidney impairment

Drug Interactions

Other nephrotoxic drugsCimetidineProbenecid

Pregnancy

Category B - Generally safe

Breastfeeding

Compatible with breastfeeding

Pricing Information

Mfg. Cost
$3
Global Avg. Price
$25
Patent Status
Brand and generic available

Prices may vary significantly by country, pharmacy, and insurance coverage. This is an average estimate.

Availability & Regulations

Prescription Required
Not OTC
Not Controlled
FDA Approval
1995

Available In

🇵🇭Philippines🇹🇭Thailand🇻🇳Vietnam🇸🇬Singapore🇲🇾Malaysia🇺🇸United States🇬🇧United Kingdom