VALTREX contains valacyclovir, a prescription antiviral medication used in the treatment and management of infections caused by herpes viruses. Valacyclovir is the L valyl ester prodrug of acyclovir, meaning it is rapidly converted into the active antiviral compound acyclovir after oral administration.
Once converted to acyclovir, the drug is further activated inside virus infected cells. Its active metabolite interferes with viral DNA polymerase, inhibiting the production of new viral DNA and limiting the ability of herpes viruses to replicate. This selective activity helps control viral outbreaks while having substantially less effect on uninfected human cells.
VALTREX is approved in Canada for the treatment of herpes zoster (shingles), treatment and suppression of genital herpes, reduction of genital herpes transmission when used with safer sex practices, and treatment of herpes labialis (cold sores) in adults and adolescents 12 years and older.
For genital herpes, valacyclovir may be used during an active initial or recurrent outbreak or as longer term suppressive therapy in appropriate patients. Suppressive treatment can reduce the frequency of recurrent outbreaks and can also reduce but does not eliminate the risk of transmitting genital herpes to a susceptible partner.
Valacyclovir does not eliminate herpes viruses from the body. Herpes simplex and varicella zoster viruses remain latent following infection and can reactivate later. Antiviral therapy instead reduces viral replication, helping shorten or control active episodes and reduce recurrence frequency when used as suppressive treatment.
This product provides:
- Active Ingredient: Valacyclovir
- Form: Valacyclovir Hydrochloride
- Strength: 500mg per tablet
- Quantity: 100 Tablets
- Drug Class: Antiviral
- Dosage Form: Oral Tablet
- Common Uses: Genital herpes, cold sores, shingles and herpes suppression
Health Canada’s Drug Product Database lists VALTREX 500mg tablets by GlaxoSmithKline as a marketed prescription medication in Canada, alongside multiple generic 500mg valacyclovir products.
Valacyclovir is eliminated primarily through the kidneys, making renal function an important consideration during treatment. Canadian prescribing information recommends dose adjustment in patients with impaired renal function. Maintaining appropriate hydration may also be important, particularly in older adults or individuals susceptible to kidney complications.
Common adverse effects associated with VALTREX can include headache, nausea, diarrhea, dizziness, and abdominal discomfort. Most patients tolerate valacyclovir well, although reactions vary depending on the individual and underlying condition.
More serious neurological or renal adverse effects can occur, particularly in individuals with impaired kidney function, older adults, or patients receiving higher exposures. Symptoms such as confusion, hallucinations, agitation, seizures, or significant changes in kidney function require medical assessment.
Valacyclovir is a prescription antiviral medication and should be used according to the directions of a qualified healthcare professional. Starting antiviral treatment early in an outbreak can be important for maximizing its clinical effectiveness.
