Generic Valtrex

Description

Active Ingredient

Valacyclovir Hydrochloride is an acyclovir prodrug that, after metabolization, inhibits viral DNA replication. This active component is indicated in the management of herpes simplex and varicella-zoster infections, as well as prophylactically for human cytomegalovirus infections. This agent is an organic molecular entity.

Indications

Valacyclovir composed medication is indicated to treat infections caused by certain types of viruses. In children, Valtrex used to treat cold sores around the mouth caused by herpes simplex and chickenpox caused by varicella-zoster. In adults, this drug is used to treat shingles caused by herpes zoster and cold sores around the mouth.

Valacyclovir is also used to treat outbreaks of genital herpes. In people with frequent outbreaks, this medication is used to reduce the number of future episodes.

This is an antiviral drug that stops the growth of certain viruses. It is not a cure for these infections. The viruses that induce these infections continue to live in the body even between outbreaks. It also decreases the severity and length of these outbreaks that help the sores heal faster, keeps new sores from forming, and reduces pain/itching. It reduces how long pain remains after the sores heal.

Action Mechanism

This mentioned medication belongs to a class of drugs called antiviral drugs.  The herpes virus spreads in the body by creating more of its cells. Valacyclovir composed medicine i.e. Valtrex works by forming it harder for the herpes virus to multiply in the body.

It does not cure herpes infections. The herpes virus may still live in the body after treatment. This drug can help prevent such a re-infection at a later time.

Dosages

This antiviral medication is available in dosages as mentioned below:

• 500 mg: This tablet shall be taken with or without food, as directed by the doctor
• 1000 mg: It is to be consumed before or after a meal as prescribed by the doctor

Note

This medication can be harmful to the kidneys, and these effects are increased when it is used in combination with other drugs.

FAQ

What is Valtrex?

Valtrex is an oral antiviral drug which is active against the herpes viruses.

What are uses of Valtrex?

Valtrex is used to treat infections with Shingles (herpes zoster), Genital herpes (herpes simplex genitalis), and Cold sores (herpes labialis).

Which drugs or supplements interact with Valtrex?

Probenecid (Benemid) and cimetidine (Tagamet) may reduce the kidney’s clearance of Valtrex, leading to higher concentrations in the blood. This may lead to side effects of Valtrex.

Is Valtrex safe to use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

Valtrex showed no effects on the fetus in animal studies; however, there has been no adequate evaluation of valacyclovir or (acyclovir) in pregnant women. The incidence of birth defects in women taking acyclovir is about the same as in the general population. Valtrex should only be used during pregnancy when the benefits to the mother outweigh risks to the fetus.

How does Valtrex work?

Valtrex belongs to a class of drugs called nucleoside analogs that mimic one of the building blocks of DNA. It stops the spread of herpes virus in the body by preventing the replication of viral DNA that is necessary for viruses to multiply.