Valtrex (Valacyclovir) Tablets

Valtrex tablets contain valacyclovir, an oral antiviral prodrug that the liver and intestine convert into acyclovir once it is absorbed. We offer it exactly as it is manufactured and prescribed: film-coated oral tablets in 500 mg and 1,000 mg strengths, sold in packs of 30, 60, 90, or 120 tablets. This guide walks through what the medication does, who typically uses it, what to check before starting, how to store it correctly, and what to expect when you order and receive it from us.

Quick overview

Valacyclovir belongs to the nucleoside analogue class of antivirals. Once converted to acyclovir, it interferes with the DNA polymerase enzyme that herpesviruses need to replicate, which slows viral spread in infected cells without eliminating the virus from the body permanently. Clinicians prescribe it for herpes zoster (shingles), genital herpes, and herpes labialis (cold sores) in adults, and for specific pediatric indications under close dosing guidance. It will not cure a herpesvirus infection, but starting it early in an outbreak typically shortens symptom duration, reduces viral shedding, and eases pain compared with no treatment.

Our catalog lists both available strengths, 500 mg and 1,000 mg tablets, and both come in 30-, 60-, 90-, or 120-tablet packs so you can order the quantity that matches the course length your prescriber has set out, whether that is a short episodic course or a longer suppressive regimen.

Who may use it

Valacyclovir tablets are established for adult use in treating cold sores, genital herpes, and shingles, with dosing and duration set by the specific indication. Pediatric use is more limited: it is approved for cold sores in children 12 years and older and for chickenpox in children from 2 up to 18 years. Chickenpox dosing is based on body weight. It is not established for younger children or for pediatric genital herpes or zoster, so a prescriber should confirm age-appropriate use before a child starts treatment.

People with a known hypersensitivity to valacyclovir or acyclovir should not take valacyclovir, since it is metabolized directly into acyclovir. Anyone with reduced kidney function needs an adjusted dose, because the drug is cleared renally and can accumulate otherwise. Pregnant or breastfeeding patients should discuss valacyclovir with a clinician; registry data have not linked it to a higher rate of major birth defects, and while acyclovir does pass into breast milk, infant exposure through nursing is generally well below therapeutic pediatric doses. Because central nervous system effects such as dizziness or confusion have been reported, particularly in older adults or those with reduced kidney function, it is worth noting how you feel before driving or operating machinery after a dose.

Before you start

Valacyclovir tablets are usually taken with or without food, swallowed whole with a full glass of water, and started as soon as possible after symptoms appear, since earlier treatment tends to work better than a delayed start. Staying well hydrated helps kidney clearance of the medication, which matters more with higher single doses. If symptoms have been present longer than expected before treatment begins, follow the prescribed schedule and ask your prescriber for guidance rather than changing or skipping doses. A short checklist of confirmations before your first dose can prevent avoidable problems.

If you take other medications, mention them to your prescriber or our pharmacist, since drugs that affect kidney function or that are also cleared by the kidneys can change how valacyclovir behaves in the body. Anyone considering alternatives can also look at Vipral, our acyclovir-based option. Valacyclovir is converted into acyclovir in the body, but the two medicines can have different dosing schedules, so a prescriber should determine which option is appropriate.

Handling and storage

Keep Valtrex tablets in their original container with the lid closed tightly between doses, since the packaging is designed to protect the tablets from moisture and light. Store the tablets at 59°F to 77°F in a dry place, away from direct sunlight, and skip the bathroom cabinet, where steam and humidity build up. A kitchen cupboard, bedroom drawer, or similar dry storage spot away from a heat source works well. Always keep the container out of the reach and sight of children and pets, and never transfer tablets into an unlabeled container, since that makes it harder to track the strength, expiration date, and identity of what you are taking.

Check the expiration date printed on the pack before each new course, and do not use tablets past that date. If you ever need to dispose of leftover or expired tablets, a pharmacy take-back program or your local household medication disposal option is the safest route rather than the trash or drain.

Purchase and delivery

We list Valtrex in 500 mg and 1,000 mg strengths, with pack sizes of 30, 60, 90, and 120 tablets, so you can size an order to a short episodic course or a longer regimen. Valacyclovir tablets are classified as a prescription medication in the United States and should be used under the direction of a licensed prescriber. Follow the instructions presented during our checkout process when placing an order. Our support team, including a pharmacist, is available 24/7 by email, online chat, and phone if you have questions about strengths, pack sizes, or the ordering process.

Once an order is confirmed, we pack it discreetly and ship it directly to the US address you provide.

When your package arrives, check that the strength and tablet count on the label match what you ordered, confirm the container is sealed, and store the tablets right away following the storage guidance above. If anything looks off on arrival, whether it is a mismatched strength, a damaged seal, or a shipping issue, our support team is on hand around the clock to sort it out.