What is valacyclovir mainly used for?
Valacyclovir is used to treat herpes zoster (shingles) and genital herpes. It does not cure herpes infections but decreases pain and itching, helps sores to heal, and prevents new ones from forming. This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
What is valaciclovir 500mg used for?
Valaciclovir belongs to a group of medicines called antivirals. It works by killing or stopping the growth of viruses called herpes simplex (HSV), varicella zoster (VZV) and cytomegalovirus (CMV). Valaciclovir can be used to: treat shingles (in adults)
How long does it take for valacyclovir to help?
Valacyclovir usually starts treating herpes symptoms as soon as it’s in your system, but can take several days to produce a noticeable improvement. It can take up to 10 days (or, in some cases, even longer) for herpes blisters to heal even with valacyclovir treatment.
Is valacyclovir an antibiotic?
Valacyclovir is an antiviral drug. It stops the growth of certain viruses. However, it is not a cure for these infections. The viruses that cause these infections continue to live in the body even between outbreaks.
How do I know if valacyclovir is working?
For most initial herpes outbreaks and cases of recurring herpes, valacyclovir takes effect very quickly and provides some level of relief in as little as two to three days. Generally, the sooner you take valacyclovir after noticing symptoms, the faster it will be to provide relief.
Can you drink coffee while taking valacyclovir?
When it comes to caffeine and Tylenol, two of the things most likely to be consumed while on Valtrex, it’s okay to take them unless told otherwise by a medical professional.
Does valacyclovir speed up healing?
Studies show that valacyclovir significantly speeds up the healing process for cold sores, even if they’ve already developed and “erupted” around the lips and mouth. This means that it’s often a good idea to use valacyclovir if you have a cold sore, even in the later stages of its life cycle.
What can you not take with valacyclovir?
Do not use medications containing acyclovir while using valacyclovir.
Can I take vitamins with valacyclovir?
Interactions between your drugs No interactions were found between valacyclovir and Vitamin B12. However, this does not necessarily mean no interactions exist. Always consult your healthcare provider.
Can I take vitamin D with valacyclovir?
Interactions between your drugs No interactions were found between valacyclovir and Vitamin D3. However, this does not necessarily mean no interactions exist. Always consult your healthcare provider.
Does coffee make cold sores worse?
Stay away from foods that worsen symptoms. Acidic foods like citrus, tomatoes, or coffee can irritate cold sores and make symptoms last longer.
What is valacyclovir used to treat?
Valacyclovir is an antiviral drug. It slows the growth and spread of the herpes virus to help the body fight the infection. Valacyclovir is used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses, including genital herpes, cold sores, and shingles (herpes zoster) in adults.
Does valacyclovir prevent the spread of genital herpes?
Valacyclovir will not prevent the spread of genital herpes. Herpes infections are contagious and you can infect other people even while you are taking this medicine.
How do you take valacyclovir hydrochloride for cold sores?
The recommended dosage of Valacyclovir hydrochloride for treatment of cold sores is 2 grams twice daily for 1 day taken 12 hours apart. Therapy should be initiated at the earliest symptom of a cold sore (e.g., tingling, itching, or burning).
What are the possible side effects of valacyclovir hydrochloride?
The most common adverse reactions reported in at least 1 indication by >10% of adult patients treated with Valacyclovir hydrochloride and observed more frequently with Valacyclovir hydrochloride compared to placebo are headache, nausea, and abdominal pain.