Uses for Valtrex Other Than Herpes

Valtrex (valacyclovir) is an antiviral drug based on acyclovir used to treat a variety of conditions caused by the herpesviridae family of viruses. It is useful to some extent in treating the major herpes viruses that infect humans, including the viruses that cause cold sores and genital herpes along with varicella-zoster virus, Epstein-Barr virus and cytomegalovirus.

Cold Sores

Cold sores, caused by HSV-1, can be treated with valacyclovir. Valtrex's website recommends that the drug be taken once during the prodrome of a cold sore (the aura associated with cold sores that can include burning, itching or tingling feeling in the area) and then again 12 hours later. Antiviral treatment has not shown to be effective in treating cold sores after they occur.

Chickenpox

Valacyclovir is also used in the treatment of chickenpox, which is caused by the varicella-zoster virus. According to the Mayo Clinic, dosing decisions are made based on age and weight and must be determined by a physician.

Shingles

Shingles is commonly treated with valacyclovir, which interrupts the replication of the varicella-zoster virus that causes the condition. Valacyclovir is used to shorten the duration and severity of shingles symptoms and to help stop new sores from forming. Valacyclovir should be started soon after the shingles rash appears and is taken is normally taken in a week-long regimen.

Epstein-Barr

Studies led by Michael W. Simon, M.D., of the University of Kentucky and H.H. Balfour Jr of the University of Minnesota demonstrate that valacyclovir reduces levels of Epstein-Barr virus in people with mononucleosis. It has not been concluded whether or not lowering the level of virus present affects symptoms.

Cytomegalovirus

Valacyclovir has been shown in several studies to be an effective preventative treatment for cytomegalovirus in groups like transplant patients. Valacyclovir is generally found to be as effective as the standard cytomegalovirus prophylactic measure, ganciclovir.

References

• Valtrex--Cold Sores
• Mayo Clinic
• Valtrex--Shingles

Resources

• Balfour Study Abstract
• Simon Study Abstract