Valtrex for Cold Sores

Valtrex Cold Sore Treatment Review
Valtrex, or Valacyclovir Hydrochloride is an antiviral medication that is often used for cold sore treatment, among other herpes related viruses. The drug is designed to help slow the spread of the herpes virus and can be taken by adults and children over the age of 12. Unfortunately, Valtrex will not cure herpes, but it will help ease symptoms.Cold sores are a form of the herpes virus. As a result, Valtrex is a medication that can help prevent and lessen the symptoms of individuals suffering from cold sores.

How Does Valtrex Work?
The most important part of using Valtrex for cold sore treatment is to try and take the drug as soon as the sore appears. If possible, Valtrex is most effective if taken before the sores actually appear. Some, but not all people, will feel symptoms such as tingling, burning, or itching before the cold sore appears. The drug usually comes in capsule form and can be taken on a daily basis for the treatment of herpes virus and or cold sores. If the drug is taken in the proper dosage on a daily basis, it usually takes a little over a week for the cold sore symptoms or cold sore to disappear. No matter what your prescribed dosage of the drug is, be sure to take the medication with a full glass of water to assist kidney function.

Valtrex Safety
Not all individuals should take Valtrex. The drug is not suitable for those with HIV or AIDS. Additionally, if an individual is suffering from kidney disease, the drug can worsen the condition. Those who have had a kidney or bone marrow transplant should also avoid Valtrex. Before taking Valtrex, it is extremely important to discuss with your doctor any other medications you are taking; Valtrex is potentially harmful when taken in combination with certain medications. Those who are pregnant should know that Valtrex is a class ‘B’ drug meaning that the effects it has on a pregnancy are not currently known.

Side effects of Valtrex can include: weakness, fatigue, fainting, nausea, vomiting, blood diarrhea, pale skin, decreased kidney function, fever, easy bruising and or bleeding, lower back pain, mood changes, drowsiness, shortness of breath, weight gain, confusion, extreme thirst, loss of appetite, hallucinations, and seizures. If experiencing any of these symptoms, contact a doctor immediately.

Conclusion
When compared to other cold sores treatments, Valtrex has proven to be effective for most individuals.