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.