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Valacyclovir

Valacyclovir: Uses, How It Works, and Possible Side Effects

Valtrex (valacyclovir) is an antiviral medication to treat certain viral infections, including cold sores, genital herpes, and shingles.

Lauren Smith, MADaisy Chau, PharmD
Written by Lauren Smith, MA | Reviewed by Daisy Chau, PharmD, Alexandra Schwarz, MD
Updated on July 31, 2024
Featuring Nabila Ismail, PharmDReviewed by Daisy Chau, PharmD | July 31, 2024

Valacyclovir can help treat certain viral infections, such as cold sores and other herpes-related infections. Taking it correctly may help improve your treatment outcomes and help get rid of the infection.

If you have more questions about valacyclovir, talk to your pharmacist or the healthcare provider who prescribed the medication.

References

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Lauren Smith, MA
Written by:
Lauren Smith, MA
Lauren Smith, MA, has worked in health journalism since 2017. Before joining GoodRx, she was the senior health editor and writer for HealthiNation.
Daisy Chau, PharmD
Reviewed by:
Daisy Chau, PharmD
Daisy Chau, PharmD, is the drug information pharmacist manager at GoodRx. She is licensed in California and has more than 6 years of experience working as a pharmacist in drug information.
Alexandra Schwarz, MD, is a board-eligible sleep medicine physician and a board-certified family medicine physician. She is a member of both the AASM and the ABFM.

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