Antiviral Tablets for Cold Sores and Genital Herpes
Valacyclovir
(generic Valtrex™)
What is this medication?
Valacyclovir is an antiviral medication used to treat infections caused by the herpes virus. It works by slowing the growth and spread of the virus in your body, helping reduce symptoms and allowing your immune system to better control the infection.
Antiviral medications do not kill the virus completely but help limit how much it can multiply, which reduces the severity and duration of outbreaks.
Providers may prescribe valacyclovir to treat viral infections such as:
cold sores (oral herpes)
genital herpes
shingles (herpes zoster)
chickenpox (in certain cases)
Valacyclovir works by interfering with viral DNA replication, which prevents the virus from spreading and helps reduce symptoms such as pain, burning, itching, and skin lesions.
This medication does not cure herpes infections. The virus remains in your body even after treatment, but valacyclovir helps manage outbreaks and reduce symptom severity.
This medication should only be used when prescribed by a licensed healthcare provider.
SOLO: Not Included
DUO: 21 Tablets; 500mg
QUAD: 42 Tablets; 500mg
When should this medication be used?
Your provider may recommend using valacyclovir if you experience symptoms such as:
tingling, burning, or itching before a cold sore appears
painful blisters or sores on the lips, mouth, or genitals
recurrent herpes outbreaks
rash or nerve pain associated with shingles
early symptoms of a herpes flare-up
This medication works best when started as soon as symptoms begin. Delaying treatment may reduce how well it works.
Do not start this medication unless your provider has instructed you to do so.
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Your provider may recommend using valacyclovir if you experience symptoms such as:
tingling, burning, or itching before a cold sore appears
painful blisters or sores on the lips, mouth, or genitals
recurrent herpes outbreaks
rash or nerve pain associated with shingles
early symptoms of a herpes flare-up
This medication works best when started as soon as symptoms begin. Delaying treatment may reduce how well it works.
Do not start this medication unless your provider has instructed you to do so.
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If you miss a dose
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember
If it is close to your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose
Do not take two doses at the same time
If you are unsure how to adjust your schedule, contact your provider or pharmacist.
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While taking valacyclovir:
This medication does not cure herpes infections and does not eliminate the virus from your body
If you have genital herpes, you can still spread the virus even if you have no symptoms
Avoid sexual contact during active outbreaks and use protection to reduce transmission risk
Do not take the medication longer than prescribed
Stay well hydrated to help protect your kidneys
Inform all healthcare providers that you are taking this medication
Older adults may be at higher risk for side effects and should use caution
Monitor for unusual symptoms such as confusion, changes in behavior, or decreased urination and report them promptly.
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Valacyclovir may interact with other medications and increase the risk of side effects.
Tell your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, supplements, and herbal products.
Examples of potential interactions include:
medications that affect kidney function
other antiviral medications
drugs that may increase strain on the kidneys (such as certain antibiotics or NSAIDs)
immunosuppressive medications
If you are unsure whether your medications may interact, contact your provider or pharmacist before starting this medication.
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Store tablets at room temperature in a dry place
Do not store in humid areas such as bathrooms
Keep medication in its original labeled container
Carry medication in your carry-on luggage when traveling
Stay hydrated while taking this medication, especially during travel
Only start the medication when instructed by your provider
Do not share this medication with anyone else
If using a liquid form:
Store in the refrigerator
Do not freeze
Discard any unused portion after 28 days
Important Safety Information
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Valacyclovir can cause serious side effects in rare cases. Seek immediate medical care if you experience:
signs of a severe allergic reaction (rash, swelling, trouble breathing)
kidney problems such as decreased urination, swelling, or sudden weight gain
confusion, hallucinations, mood changes, or unusual behavior
difficulty speaking, tremors, or seizures
unusual bruising or bleeding, extreme fatigue, or yellowing of the skin or eyes (possible blood disorder)
severe skin reactions such as blistering, peeling skin, or painful rash
These reactions are rare but may be serious and require immediate medical attention.
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you develop a severe rash, blistering, or peeling skin
you have swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
you experience difficulty breathing
you notice confusion, hallucinations, or seizures
you have signs of kidney problems (little or no urine, swelling)
you experience unusual bruising, bleeding, or yellowing of the skin
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Do not take this medication if you:
are allergic to valacyclovir, acyclovir, or any ingredient in the medication
Use caution and speak with your provider if you have:
kidney disease
weakened immune system
a history of neurological conditions
are age 65 or older
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Tell your healthcare provider if you:
have kidney problems or reduced kidney function
are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding
take other medications or supplements
have a weakened immune system
have any known medication allergies
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Common side effects may include:
headache
nausea or vomiting
stomach pain
diarrhea
fatigue or weakness
Most side effects are mild. Contact your provider if symptoms persist or worsen.
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Symptoms of overdose may include:
confusion or altered mental status
agitation or hallucinations
seizures
kidney problems such as reduced urine output
If you think you have taken too much of this medication, seek emergency medical care or contact poison control immediately.
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Dispose of unused or expired medication properly to prevent accidental use or harm:
Do not flush this medication down the toilet unless instructed
Do not pour into drains
Use a medication take-back program if available
If no program is available, mix with an undesirable substance (such as coffee grounds or dirt), place in a sealed container, and throw away in household trash
Keep all medications out of reach of children and pets.
Disclaimers
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This prescription may have been issued through a telemedicine consultation with a licensed healthcare provider. If you experience severe symptoms, worsening illness, or any concerning reactions while using this medication, contact your prescribing clinician immediately or seek emergency medical care.
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This medication guide summarizes important safety information derived from pharmacy labeling, medication manufacturers, and prescribing references. It is intended to help patients understand the safe use of medications included in the Superior Health & Wellness Travel Medical Kit.
This guide does not contain the complete prescribing information for Valacyclovir. Always follow the directions provided by your healthcare provider and the instructions on the pharmacy label that accompanies your prescription.
Medications included in travel medical kits are prescribed only after a clinical evaluation by a licensed healthcare provider. Prescriptions are issued based on your medical history, current medications, allergies, and overall health needs. Not all patients will qualify for every medication or kit configuration, and the contents of each kit may vary based on provider discretion and patient suitability.
Some medications included in travel medical kits are commercially manufactured medications dispensed through licensed pharmacies. In certain cases, a medication may be provided as a compounded formulation prepared by a licensed compounding pharmacy when a provider determines that a compounded version is medically appropriate for a patient. Compounded medications are not reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for safety or effectiveness but are prepared by licensed pharmacies in accordance with applicable pharmacy regulations.
Travel Medical Kits are intended to provide limited medication support during travel when timely access to medical care may be difficult. These kits are not a substitute for routine medical care, primary care services, or emergency medical treatment. Purchasing a Travel Medical Kit does not establish a primary care relationship with Superior Health & Wellness and does not include ongoing medical supervision beyond the initial provider evaluation used to determine eligibility for the kit.
Patients experiencing severe illness, worsening symptoms, medication reactions, or medical emergencies should seek immediate medical care or contact a licensed healthcare professional.
Medical services and prescriptions offered through Superior Health & Wellness are provided by licensed healthcare professionals in accordance with applicable state and federal laws. Prescription medications are dispensed by licensed pharmacies following a valid provider prescription.
Patients are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription medications to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Visit MedWatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.