Valtrex is often advertised as a treatment for genital herpes, but it is also recommended for treating cold sores, especially in children. Is Valtrex safe, and can it be used to cure cold sores?

What Is It?

Valtrex is available in caplet form, in both 500 mg and 1 g, depending on a doctor’s prescription. There is no cure for herpes, and an infection initiated by the herpes virus can only be treated with a variety of creams, gels, liquids, and tablets available on the market.  Valtrex is advertised as an anti-viral as it makes the symptoms of
herpes virus infections milder.

Active Ingredient

Valacyclovir is the anti-viral and active ingredient of Valtrex. Valacyclovir is recommended for treating infections by the herpes virus.

In the human body, valacyclovir is converted to acyclovir, which then acts on the herpes virus. Valacyclovir is not the cure for herpes, but it can take away some of the discomfort and pain associated with cold sores, which can facilitate faster healing.

Manufacturer

Valtrex is manufactured by multi-national company GlaxoSmithKline (GSK). GSK is also responsible for other drugs such as Advair, Abreva, and most commonly used influenza virus vaccines. In the U.S., GSK is based in Philadelphia.

Use

Valtrex is taken once a day and is prescribed as treatment for diseases caused by the Herpes virus. This includes cold sores, genital herpes, and even herpes zoster in adults; as well as cold sores and chickenpox in children.

Results

If Valtrex is used to treat cold sores, it should not be used for over a day. A single caplet is recommended for each dose, and doses are spaced twelve hours apart.

Reviews of Valtrex have so far been very good. Some reviewers reportedly use it to treat breakouts of herpes, and find that Valtrex has not lost its efficacy even with repeated use over a long period of time. The frequency of outbreaks, however, has been mixed in users: in some users, Valtrex has not let to repeated outbreaks of cold sores, but for some users, Valtrex does not work and keeps allowing cold sores to happen.

Side Effects

The most common side effects associated with Valtrex include lack of appetite, depression, and fatigue. Rare side effects might include difficulty moving bowels, nausea, body pains, fever, and chest pains. Very rarely are some side effects reported that include bleeding, anxiety, allergic reactions, paranoia, seizures, lack of muscle coordination, or vomiting.

Doctors recommend an immediate consultation if you experience bloody bowels, jaundice, weakness, or changes in urination frequency after taking Valtrex. Doctors also recommend stopping if you are exhibiting an allergic reaction to Valtrex, or are showing signs of unsteadiness or mental instability.

Price

Valtrex is available only with a prescription. Prices vary depending on the location and availability of insurance. For instance, Valtrex costs around $110 for 42 500mg tablets in some areas; and $85 for 21 500 mg tablets in other areas. You will need to consult with your local pharmacy and ask about fees, taxes, or other add-ons or discounts.

Where To Buy

You can buy Valtrex at local pharmacies, such as those at Walgreens, CVS, and even Wal-Mart, provided that you have a prescription.