If you, like so many others, suffer from the painful and embarrassing condition called herpes you may want to consider trying Valtrex. It treats cold sores, shingles and even chicken pox. You do need a prescription to buy Valtrex, so talk to your doctor to see if this medication could be right for you. It can be used while pregnant without any known interactions, but only take it as needed. It’s not recommended that you take it while breast feeding, as it could pass through the milk to the baby. Valtrex is classified as an antiviral drug that can be used by anyone over the age of 12 with a doctor’s consent to treat cold sores and anyone over the age of two to treat chickenpox outbreak.
Valtrex is a blue tablet that is to be taken orally, and you don’t need to eat before you take it, but make sure to keep drinking plenty of water while on this medication to help your kidneys. Valtrex will provide you with the best results when used immediately after you notice symptoms of an outbreak coming on. It may not work well for you if you wait a day or two after symptoms arise as it needs time to work. Make sure to take it as prescribed, consistently and at the time time each day. Do not take more than the recommended dose and do not start or stop this medication on your own. Do not give this medication to anyone else.
Side effects
Valtrex is considered to be a very safe medication, but like all medications it comes with some side effects. Some minor side effects may include nausea or a head ache. More serious side effects may include an unstable mood, shakiness, weakness, swelling anywhere on the body nose bleeds, having a hard time speaking, kidney problems or even hallucinations. Please communicate to your doctor at once should these occur to make sure it’s safe to continue treatment.
The most serious side effects include a noticeable change in heartbeat, bruising, fever, seizures and yellowing of the eyes and skin (jaundice.) Seek medical help immediately should any of these occur. Very few people are allergic to this medication and develop a rash. Should this happen, talk to your physician to make sure its not medication related. If you have a history of kidney problems, or immune system issues be sure to tell your doctor before taking Valtrex, because it could make things worse. Also tell your doctor about any other medications you may be taking especially chemotherapy, injected antibiotics or inject able osteoporosis medications to make sure it’s safe to take them together with Valtrex, because it’s hard on your kidneys.
Valtrex needs to be stored away from humidity and light at room temperature, so don’t put it in the bathroom. As with all medications, keep it out of reach of any children. Please note that this medication is NOT a cure for the herpes virus, and it will NOT prevent the spreading of the virus to other people. Practice safe sex as usual and make sure your partner is aware of your condition. Always cover lesions with a condom or wait until the outbreak disappears to continue with sex.
General Practitioner. I worked in hospitals in Melbourne and Sydney.