Herpes and Generic Valtrex

Herpes zoster or shingles is a very unpleasant infection of the skin. Caused by the chicken pox virus, shingles can cause excruciating pain and blisters which can last anywhere from 2-3 weeks. There are several drugs on the market to treat shingles and one of them is valtrex. Valtrex, also known as valacylcovir, has been around for some years and widely used to treat cold sores and chicken pox in children. In the last decade, valtrex has been frequently used to treat shingles. Consumers should understand that valtrex does not cure the infection but only decreases pain, helps the sores heal faster and may limit the duration of the rash by a day or two. Valtrex belongs to a class of medications known as antiviral drugs.

Generic valtrex has also been used to treat individuals who have genital herpes. Individuals who have recurrent outbreaks of shingles or herpes are also frequently treated with valtrex. Individuals who take valtrex for genital herpes should understand that the drug only controls the symptoms but does not cure the infection or prevent transmission of the infection to your sexual partners. Anyone who is taking valtrex for the treatment of genital herpes should practice safe sex behaviors to limit the chances of transmitting herpes to the partner, even if one has no symptoms. The best advice is to use a condom made of latex. Individuals who have an active outbreak of herpes should refrain from have sexual contact until all the blisters have cleared.

Valtrex can be taken with or without food as directed by your doctor. It is recommended that one drinks lots of fluids when taking the medication. Valtrex only works if it is taken within 24 hours after the onset of symptoms. If the symptoms have been going on for more than 72 hours, it is very unlikely that the medication will work. Valtrex works best when it is taken soon after the first symptom or appearance of the rash. The medication must be continued until the prescribed amount of tablets are completed even if the symptoms have disappeared. Stopping valtrex prematurely or skipping doses may result in effective treatment.

Valtrex is generally a safe medication but does have a few side effects. The common side effects include nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, stomach cramps and fatigue. If these side effects persist, one should notify the doctor. In very rare cases valtrex may cause confusion, tremors, vision changes or mood disturbances. Like all drugs , valtrex may cause an allergic reaction. If one develops a skin rash, difficulty breathing, severe itching or a swollen face, then one should seek immediate medical attention.

Generic valtrex works in about 80% of people if taken within 24 hours of symptoms. The pain can be significantly reduced. To maximize the effects of valtrex, it is recommended that one also use over the counter pain killers and keep the skin clean. Application of calamine lotion or wet compresses can help relieve the itch and pain. The use of topical zostrix is not recommended as it never works and is prohibitively expensive.

Today, valtrex is readily availabe from many online pharmacies. However, one does require a prescription from a health care prrofessional. To avoid fraud, scams or counterfeit products, it is recommended that one buy valtrex from a reputable online pharmacy.

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