A practical guide to Valacyclovir and Valtrex - what they are, how they are used, benefits, risks, side effects, comparisons, and answers to common questions. Valtrex is an antiviral drug. It slows the growth and spread of the herpes virus to help the body fight the infection. Valtrex is used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses, including genital herpes, cold sores, and shingles (herpes zoster) in adults. COMMON BRAND NAME (S): Valtrex What should I tell my care team before I take this medication? They need to know if you have any of these conditions: Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) Any other condition that may weaken the immune system Bone marrow or kidney transplant Kidney disease Valtrex is the brand name for valacyclovir, a prodrug of acyclovir used to treat herpes zoster (shingles), recurrent genital herpes, and cold sores. Compared with acyclovir, valacyclovir has better oral bioavailability which allows less frequent dosing. Find patient medical information for Valacyclovir (Valtrex) on WebMD including its uses, side effects and safety, interactions, pictures, warnings, and user ratings Valacyclovir is used to treat cold sores (herpes labialis), shingles (herpes zoster), and genital herpes. It is also used to control genital herpes outbreak in patients with human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1). This medicine is also used to treat cold sores and chickenpox in children. Medscape - Herpes simplex, zoster-specific dosing for Valtrex (valacyclovir), frequency-based adverse effects, comprehensive interactions, contraindications, pregnancy & lactation schedules, and. Valtrex (Valacyclovir Hydrochloride) may treat, side effects, dosage, drug interactions, warnings, patient labeling, reviews, and related medications including drug comparison and health resources. Valacyclovir (Valtrex) is an antiviral medication used for treating infections caused by herpes simplex virus and varicella zoster virus, such as cold sores, genital herpes, and shingles, and chickenpox. Get valacyclovir to treat genital herpes outbreaks. Science backed treatment prescribed online and delivered discreetly to your door.