1. Lessen the Impact of Genital Herpes
Valtrex is an antiviral medication that comes in a caplet form. Taking 1 caplet daily helps keep the symptoms of genital herpes at bay. Although genital herpes is incurable, Valtrex lessens the duration of herpes symptoms and reduces the number of breakouts. Valtrex can help in the treatment of a variety of problems that the herpes virus causes, like cold sores, shingles, genital herpes and chicken pox.
2. Treat the Virus ASAP
Treatment with Valtrex should start as close to the first onset of symptoms as possible. If you notice blisters accompanied by burning or tingling in the genital area, contact your physician. Take Valtrex only as your doctor prescribes it and drink plenty of water while you're on the medication to keep your kidneys working properly. Valtrex may harm your kidneys, especially when you take it with certain other medications, so discuss with your doctor all medicines you take and any drug allergies you have before you start with Valtrex.
3. Vatrex Can't Do Everything
Valtrex can't prevent the spread of herpes. The herpes virus can pass from one person to another even when no symptoms show. The best way to prevent the spread of herpes is by using a condom and limiting sexual intercourse to those times when you're not experiencing symptoms. Keeping the blisters clean and washing your hands after contact with the infection can also help.
4. This Isn't Normal
As with any medication, certain side effects may occur. Contact your health care provider if you experience anything out of the ordinary while taking Valtrex, but especially if you notice shortness of breath, trouble with vision or speech, weakness, decreased urination, lower back pain, nausea or fever. Allergic reactions to Valtrex require immediate emergency medical care. These can present as a swollen tongue, throat or face, trouble breathing or hives. Less serious side effects of Valtrex include pain in the joints, nose stuffiness, fatigue, headache or a sore throat.
5. Speed Recovery From Cold Sores and Shingles
Treatment with Valtrex for cold sores is a 1-day cycle. Take 1 dose of Valtrex when you first notice signs of a cold sore breakout, then take a second dose 12 hours later. A virus called varicella-zoster causes shingles and chickenpox. Shingles is a rash that can cause pain and develops into blisters. Valtrex can speed the recovery for someone with shingles and is usually prescribed for 7 days to treat symptoms.
