• Speeds healing and reduces outbreak duration
  • Relieves pain, tingling and cold sore discomfort
  • Reduces future outbreaks with daily suppressive therapy

How it works?

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Overview

Want to stop cold sores before they take over? Valtrex (Valaciclovir) Tablets are a powerful oral antiviral that helps shorten healing time, ease pain, and reduce the risk of recurrent outbreaks.

By tackling the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) directly, Valtrex works fast — especially when taken at the very first signs of tingling or burning. For many, this means smaller, shorter, and less disruptive flare-ups, so you can get back to feeling confident and comfortable sooner.

This medicine requires a secure online consultation with a UK-registered prescriber, and will only be supplied if clinically appropriate.


What is Valtrex


Valtrex is a trusted antiviral treatment for cold sores and herpes outbreaks.
It contains valaciclovir, which converts in the body to aciclovir — a powerful agent that blocks the herpes virus from multiplying. Compared to standard aciclovir, Valtrex usually requires fewer daily doses, making it a convenient, high-strength option for effective symptom control.

Valtrex is used to:

  • Speed up healing when taken at the first sign of a cold sore or flare-up
  • Ease discomfort, including pain, burning, swelling, and redness
  • Reduce the severity of blisters and limit the spread of infection
  • Prevent recurrent outbreaks, especially in those with frequent symptoms

Directions

  • Take exactly as prescribed by your clinician.
  • The usual dose for cold sores is 2g twice in one day, taken 12 hours apart.
  • Swallow the tablets whole with water, with or without food.
  • For best results, start treatment as soon as the first symptoms appear.
  • Do not take more than the prescribed course.

Side Effects

Valtrex is generally well tolerated, but like all medicines, it can cause side effects in some people. Most are mild and temporary.

Common (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

  •  Headache – the most commonly reported side effect, usually mild and short-lived.
  • Nausea or stomach upset – some people may feel sick or experience mild digestive discomfort.
  • Dizziness – if affected, avoid driving or operating machinery until it passes.
  • Tiredness – a general feeling of fatigue may occur, especially at the start of treatment.

Less common but serious (seek medical advice immediately if these occur):

  • Allergic reaction – including rash, swelling of the face or throat, or difficulty breathing.
  • Kidney issues – such as changes in urination, especially in dehydrated patients or those with pre-existing kidney conditions.
  • Confusion or hallucinations – rare, but more likely in older adults or people with kidney disease.

 

Disclaimer: This is not a complete list of side effects. Always read the patient information leaflet that comes with your medicine for full details. If you notice anything unusual or concerning, stop taking the medicine and seek medical advice promptly. In an emergency, call 999 or go to A&E.

Warnings

Do not take Valtrex if you:

  • Are allergic to valaciclovir, aciclovir, or any ingredients in the tablets
  • Have significant kidney or liver problems, unless your doctor has adjusted the dose


Other cautions:

  • Stay well hydrated during treatment
  • Tell your prescriber about any other medicines you take
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding women should only use under medical advice

FAQ's

How quickly does Valtrex work?
It works best when taken at the first signs of a cold sore, often shortening recovery by 1–2 days.

Is Valtrex better than Aciclovir?
Both are effective, but Valtrex usually requires fewer doses, which some people find more convenient.

Can Valtrex prevent cold sores altogether?
Daily suppressive treatment may be prescribed for people with frequent outbreaks.

Do I need to take it every day?
Not usually — for cold sores, it’s often prescribed as a one-day treatment.

Can children take Valtrex?
It may be prescribed for adolescents in some cases, but dosing must be adjusted carefully.

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