Valaciclovir

What is Valaciclovir?

Valaciclovir is an antiviral medicine that is widely used to treat the herpes simplex virus (HSV). It can be used in the treatment of genital herpes, cold sores and also to prevent HSV infections in the eyes.

It is also available as a branded version, Valtrex.

To buy Valaciclovir tablets, you must have a prescription. This medicine can be taken by adults and children over the age of 12.

What is Valaciclovir used to treat?

Valaciclovir, along with Aciclovir, is the most commonly prescribed medication to provide effective treatment for the herpes simplex virus (HSV).

The herpes infection comes in two variations. HSV-1 is responsible for cold sores around the mouth. HSV-2 causes genital herpes. A benefit of Valaciclovir is that it can treat both versions. It helps to heal the blisters and stop the spread of the virus. 

This treatment is available to purchase in packs of 10 tablets (to treat one outbreak), 20 tablets (to treat two outbreaks), or 30 tablets (to treat three outbreaks).

Why is Valaciclovir recommended to treat genital herpes?

Valaciclovir has been found to be highly effective at reducing pain in patients with herpes symptoms. In fact, it was shown to reduce pain up to 25% quicker than aciclovir.

Your symptoms may be reduced after 3 days. Do not stop taking the medicine if you think your symptoms have fully gone as the herpes virus may still be present in your body, which means you may spread it to others. Valaciclovir reaches its peak concentration in your blood within one to three hours of taking it.

How does Valaciclovir work?

Valaciclovir is quickly converted into aciclovir once it has been ingested. This antiviral medication works by inhibiting the viral DNA polymerase. It does this by blocking an enzyme within the virus. This stops the virus from being able to reproduce and spread. As a result, your immune system is able to kill the virus.

Who can take Valaciclovir?

This genital herpes treatment is effective in most cases, but it may not be suitable for everyone to take.

You should not use Valaciclovir without speaking to your doctor if any of these apply to you:

• You are allergic to valaciclovir or any of the other ingredients contained in this medicine (please refer to the Ingredients tab on this page)
• You have ever had an extended rash associated with a fever, enlarged lymph node, increased levels of liver enzymes and/or eosinophilia after taking valaciclovir (If you develop this while taking Valaciclovir, you should stop using the medicine and contact your doctor immediately)
• You have liver problems
• You have kidney problems
• You have a weak immune system
• You are over the age of 65
• You are pregnant or breastfeeding

This medication is not suitable for children under the age of 12 years old.

This information may not be exhaustive. Always read the patient information leaflet for full details on why Valaciclovir may not be suitable for you to take.

Can you buy Valaciclovir 500mg tablets over the counter?

No, Valaciclovir is a prescription-only medicine and not for sale over the counter.

Can you buy Valaciclovir 500mg online in the UK?

You can buy Valaciclovir online from regulated pharmacies like Medicine Direct. Before your order will be confirmed, however, you must complete a confidential online consultation to ensure that this medication is suitable for you. One of our registered doctors, pharmacists or prescribers will review your condition and answers to ensure Valaciclovir is the best treatment.

Next day delivery is available if you order by 2pm.

For your own safety, do not order any prescription or non-prescription medicine online unless it is from a regulated pharmacy, like Medicine Direct. Full details of who regulates our company can be seen on the About Us page.

Valaciclovir alternatives

The branded version of Valaciclovir (Valtrex) is also available to buy from our pharmacy. This medicine will work to treat genital herpes and other problems in the same way as generic Valaciclovir.

Aciclovir 400mg tablets are also stocked in our pharmacy and can be ordered after completing an online consultation.

Valaciclovir Dosage and Directions

Our pharmacists and prescribers follow NICE guidelines when prescribing Valaciclovir.

Always take Valaciclovir tablets exactly as instructed by your doctor. Read the patient information leaflet for instructions and ask your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure.

Swallow Valaciclovir tablets whole with a drink of water. Do not crush or chew the tablets.

These tablets can be taken with or without food but should be taken at the same time(s) each day.

It is important that you keep taking Valaciclovir for as long as your doctor has told you to, even if you start to notice your symptoms improving. Prematurely stopping your treatment may make the problem come back.

If you are over the age of 65 or have any kidney problems, it is imperative that you drink plenty of water throughout the day. This will help to minimise the risk of side effects that can affect the kidneys or nervous system.

Valaciclovir Side Effects

As with all medicines, Valaciclovir comes with the risk of certain side effects, although not everyone will get them.

Common side effects while using this treatment include:

• Feeling sick
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Rash
• Itching
• Skin reaction after exposure to sunlight

If any of these conditions bother you or don't go away, you should speak to your doctor.

Speak to your doctor if you get any of these rarer side effects:

• Tremors
• Feeling agitated
• Hallucinations
• Feeling confused
• Shortness of breath
• Stomach discomfort
• Rash
• Lower back pain
• Blood in your urine
• Fits or convulsions
• Altered brain function
• Unsteadiness when standing up or walking
• Slow or slurred speech
• Coma

Always read the patient information leaflet thoroughly for a comprehensive list of side effects and how to cope with them.

Valaciclovir Warnings and Drug Interactions

Certain drugs may interact with Valaciclovir and hinder its effectiveness in treating your symptoms.

You should always make sure your doctor is aware of any medicine you are currently taking. This includes both prescription and non-prescription medication, herbal remedies, vitamins and supplements.

In particular, tell your doctor if you are taking:

• Organoplatinum compounds
• Aminoglycosides
• Foscarnet
• Ciclosporin
• Tacrolimus
• Cimetidine
• Iodinated contrast media
• Probenecid
• Methotrexate
• Pentamidine

Always read the patient information leaflet for full advice on other medicines you should be cautious of.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Valaciclovir is not considered to be harmful to a baby and does not increase the risk of birth defects. You can find out more information on taking Valaciclovir when pregnant on the Mother to Baby website.

Valaciclovir Ingredients

The main active ingredient within this medicine is: Valaciclovir hydrochloride

For a full list of the inactive ingredients, please read the Summary of Product Characteristics.

How much does it cost to buy Valaciclovir online in the UK?