Valtrex is a medication formulated to inhibit the growth of viruses, and is used in the treatment of genital and oral-type herpes infections, varicella zoster infections, and some other infections caused by viruses.
Valacyclovir antiviral medication
Valtrex contains the active chemical known as Valacyclovir, which is one of the most popular antiviral remedies used to relieve the symptoms of herpes infections caused by the type I and II herpes simplex virus. Generic Valtrex is a cheaper alternative to brand one in Australia.
How does Valtrex function to reduce the symptoms associated with viral infection in humans?
Once ingested, Valacyclovir is rapidly absorbed in the digestive system, and it is delivered via the bloodstream to the liver. Here, Valacyclovir undergoes a process of transformation from a pro-drug to an active substance called acyclovir. It is this particular conversion that allows Valtrex to become active, and start its inhibitory effects on the viral infections. The newly formed acyclovir penetrates the infected cells where the virus resides, and where it produces more viral copies to try and spread the infection to other body areas. Viruses make more copies and spread by activating a special enzyme called the viral DNA polymerase, which basically takes the DNA of the viral “parent” and makes new copies of viral DNA, enabling the virus to multiply rapidly. Valtrex works precisely on this mechanism, inhibiting the viral DNA polymerase and stopping the multiplication of viruses in the human body. Valacyclovir has little or no effects on the human DNA, and does not interfere with the normal physiological process in the human body. Valtrex is mainly prescribed as treatment for infections caused by the herpes simplex viruses and varicella zoster viruses. These types of viruses are very sensitive to the inhibitory action exerted by acyclovir, once Valtrex is converted in the liver to this active pharmaceutical compound. However, medical evidence shows that Valacyclovir also possesses an inhibitory action on other types of viruses, specifically the Epstein-Barr virus that causes the disease known as mononucleosis, and the cytomegalovirus (CMV). This is why Valtrex is also studied as a potential remedy against the viral infections caused by these viruses, although they appear less sensitive than the herpes and varicella zoster species to the inhibitory properties of acyclovir. Valtrex is sometimes prescribed as a preventive measure against a CMV infection in individuals with a weak immune system, such as those who underwent an organ transplant, or individuals infected with HIV. No viral resistance to prolonged Valacyclovir treatment has been observed in clinical settings.
Valtrex has side effects
Mild and temporary adverse effects that may be experienced by a minority of patients may include transient nausea, headaches or abdominal pain. If you experience more serious side effects, report them to your doctor, and consider consulting with a medical professional before initiating Valtrex treatment for a viral infection.