GlaxoSmithKline is the producer of Valtrex, a suppressive treatment for genital herpes and herpes Zoster. Understanding how your medication works is key to helping you maximize the benefit that this medication provides.

What is Valtrex?

Valtrex is a once-a-day prescription medication proven to help suppress future breakouts of genital herpes and to treat breakouts when they do occur. Because no drug has been proven to prevent the spread of genital herpes or to cure it, users of Valtrex should understand that they could still spread the virus to others.

How does Valtrex work?

Valtrex works by disrupting the spread of the herpes virus to other cells in the body. By disrupting this process of replication it limits the occurrence of out breaks.

Is Valtrex effective?

Valtrex was used in a clinical study of approximately 1,400 people. The goal was to test the suppressive ability Valtrex had on the herpes virus. Over a one year period 33% of the participants in the study did not have even a single breakout.

What are the most common side effects of Valtrex?

Headache, nausea, and abdominal pain were the most common reported side effects of Valtrex. Valtrex is intended for the use in adults with normal immune systems. If your immune system is not normal because of advanced HIV disease or transplants make sure your doctor is aware as to avoid any serious complications.

Can Valtrex be taken with other prescription medications?

You should always consult with your doctor before taking any new medication. But Valtrex has been tested in combination with a multitude of other drugs and no interactions were discovered.

How should Valtrex be taken?

Consult your doctor before beginning to take Valtrex. When taking Valtrex please follow your doctor’s dosage recommendations. People suffering from renal function impairment should make sure their doctor is aware when prescribing the appropriate dosage. Valtrex may be taken with or without food.

The information within this FAQ is for your benefit, but cannot replace the advice of your doctor. Only a doctor can assess the risks and benefits of Valtrex to you based on your own personal medical history. Please keep all prescription medications out of the reach of children.