Valtrex is a prescription antiviral medication. It is used in the treatment of herpes simplex as well as herpes zoster. It is what is known as a prodrug, which means that the body coverts it into a substance that can be used. When one takes Valtrex the body converts it into acyclovir. It is a medication that is marketed by GlaxoSmithKline and is available as a brand name as well as a generic.
Valtrex is a medication that is most commonly associated with the treatment of herpes zoster, but it is effective in the treatment of all of the herpes simplex viruses including herpes simplex virus type one, herpes simplex virus type two, varicella zoster virus, eptein-barr virus, and cytomegalovirus. It is a medication that is indicated in the treatment of genital and oral herpes, prophylaxis for oral and genital herpes, reducing of HSV transmission, shingles, and prevention of CMV following an organ transplant. More recently Valtrex is being used for the treatment of mononucleosis as well as for those who have been exposed to the Herpes B virus.
While Valtrex is known to be a very effective prescription medication in the treatment of all of the conditions mentioned above, it is not without side effects that need to be considered before treatment begins. Some of the more common side effects include edema, athralgia, sore throat, constipation, rash, weakness, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and headache. Other side effects may include dizziness, confusion, agitation, and vertigo. Patients should discuss side effects with their doctor as they occur to determine of Valtrex continues to be the best course of action for the treatment in the indicated condition.