When taking this medication some people might feel relief from their symptoms after a couple of days, while for others it can take up to 10 days for Valacyclovir to work. The timeline for symptoms to go away depends on your metabolism, age, and how severe your symptoms are.
The generic versions of the medication and the brand are the same chemically, both just as effective for treating herpes virus infections, and work in the same way.
Valacyclovir for cold sores
Valacyclovir should be taken right away when the sign of a cold sore appears such as itching, burning, or tingling in order to prevent them from becoming worse and to prevent other cold sores from appearing. While this is not a cure for cold sores, it will treat them as a symptom.
Valacyclovir for general herpes
Genital herpes is a common STD (sexually transmitted disease that a person who is sexually active can get from skin to skin contact. The majority of people with the virus have very mild or no symptoms.
This medication does not cure herpes infections but helps heal the symptoms by decreasing pain, itching and healing sores.
It's still possible to have an outbreak even if you are taking Valacyclovir. If this happens it is important to avoid sexual contact in order to reduce the risk of the virus from spreading. To help prevent possible transmission it's always recommended to use a condom. This medication cannot be used as preventative medication to avoid becoming infected. If a person does not have the herpes virus, they should not take it, as it can cause health problems and other side effects.
Possible side effects and risk factors can include:
Lack of appetite, headache, vomiting, constipation, tiredness, trouble concentrating, trouble sleeping, feeling sad, irritable, loss of interest, discouragement.
Allergic reactions can include hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the mouth, throat, or face. Check with your doctor immediately and seek medical advice about side effects should they occur.
How do I know if Valacyclovir is for me?
Valacyclovir is used to treat people of all ages suffering from cold sores and genital herpes and children with chickenpox. This medication has been studied and has proven to be effective and safe.
Valacyclovir is for anyone, but is generally recommended for:
- Adult men or women with infections caused by herpes viruses, including genital herpes, cold sores, and shingles herpes zoster.
- Children who are at least 12 years old with cold sores
- Children with Chickenpox who are at least 2 years old.
How does it work?
Valacyclovir is an antiviral drug and part of a group of medications that treat similar conditions. The herpes virus spreads in a person’s body by multiplying its cells and valacyclovir prevents the virus from doing this. Even after treatment the virus can still live in your body and can occur again at a later date at which point you can take this medication again to prevent re-infection.
How long does it take to work?
The timeline for it to work depends on several factors including how severe the outbreak was, and how soon you started taking the medication. For herpes outbreaks and recurring herpes, valacyclovir provides some relief from the signs and symptoms in just 2 or 3 days. The prescription given is usually for 7-10 days, however, if your doctor prescribes it for longer it's best to take it for the entire period even if you are feeling better.
For recurring outbreaks, the prescription could be given for a shorter period of time of 5 days. The sooner the treatment starts the shorter and less severe the symptoms will be.
You will be directed to a telehealth appointment where your personalized treatment plan will be made with a healthcare professional.
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