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Valaciclovir

Treat Shingles With Valaciclovir

Learn how Valaciclovir is used to treat Shingles, including how it works, how to apply it safely, who it's suitable for, and what results you can expect. If you think you have Shingles then you can check your eligibility for a free NHS funded video consultaton & treatment, without requiring a GP appointment.

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MEDICAL INFORMATION

Valaciclovir Key Facts

Who Manufactures Valaciclovir?

Valaciclovir is manufactured by various MHRA approved generic manufacturers.

What Form is Valaciclovir available in?

Valaciclovir is available in tablet form.

How do I store Valaciclovir?

Store Valaciclovir at room temperature, below 30° C, away from excess moisture and heat.

What is Valaciclovir used for?

Valaciclovir is used for the treatment of shingles (herpes zoster) infection under the NHS England commissioned Pharmacy First service.

How does Valaciclovir work?

Valaciclovir works by preventing viral DNA replication, terminating the growing viral DNA chain, and inactivation of viral DNA enzymes.

When will I feel better and what should I do if I do not get better?

Seek medical advice if new vesicles form after 7 days of antiviral treatment, healing is delayed, symptoms worsen rapidly or significantly at any time or do not improve after completion of the treatment course. Shingles usually resolves within 4 weeks. Seek medical advice if symptoms have not resolved within this time.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Valaciclovir?

Moderate alcohol consumption is safe while taking Valaciclovir, however some individuals may experience increased drowsiness or dizziness.

Do I need to take Valaciclovir with food?

Valaciclovir tablets may be taken with or without food.

Who can and cannot take Valaciclovir?

You may take Valaciclovir if you meet the inclusion criteria for shingles for the Pharmacy First service, but may not take Valaciclovir if you meet the exclusion criteria for shingles for the Pharmacy First service.

How often do I need to take Valaciclovir?

You should take 1 gram of Valaciclovir three times a day for 7 days.

What are the side effects of Valaciclovir?

Side effects of Valaciclovir include diarrhoea, nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, headaches, dizziness, fever, tiredness, and skin reactions.

Are there any Interactions of Valaciclovir with other drugs?

Valaciclovir interacts with ciclosporin, tacrolimus, mycophenolate, aminophylline and theophylline.

Other important information about Valaciclovir

Take Valaciclovir at regular intervals and finish the course even if your symptoms improve. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose. Seek medical advice in the event of an adverse reaction or if any other new symptoms develop.

Does Valaciclovir interfere with conception and contraception?

Valaciclovir does not affect fertility in men or women and does not stop any type of contraception from working.

Can I use Valaciclovir when breast feeding?

Valaciclovir should be used with caution during breast feeding and only when clinically indicated. If you are breastfeeding, avoid direct contact between your baby and shingles sores. Also, monitor your baby for diarrhoea, vomiting, rashes, irritability, lethargy and fever.

Can I use Valaciclovir if I am pregnant or planning to become pregnant?

Valaciclovir should only be used in pregnancy if the potential benefits of treatment outweigh the potential risk.

Medical Disclaimer

NowPatient has taken all reasonable steps to ensure that all material is factually accurate, complete, and current. However, the knowledge and experience of a qualified healthcare professional should always be sought after instead of using the information on this page. Before taking any drug, you should always speak to your doctor or another qualified healthcare provider.

The information provided here about medications is subject to change and is not meant to include all uses, precautions, warnings, directions, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or negative effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a particular medication does not imply that the medication or medication combination is appropriate for all patients or for all possible purposes.

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FAQs

Answers to Popular Questions About How Valaciclovir Treats Shingles

What is Valaciclovir and how is it used for shingles?

Valaciclovir is an antiviral prodrug that is converted to aciclovir in the body. It is used to treat shingles (herpes zoster) and offers the advantage of less frequent dosing than aciclovir — three times daily instead of five times daily — making it more convenient. Valaciclovir achieves higher blood levels of aciclovir than oral aciclovir itself due to better bioavailability. Through the NHS Pharmacy First service, a pharmacist can supply valaciclovir for shingles without a GP appointment.

What is the dose of Valaciclovir for shingles?

Adults: 1000 mg (1 g) three times daily for 7 days. This simpler dosing schedule (three times daily vs five times daily with aciclovir) improves adherence. Take with plenty of water. Valaciclovir can be taken with or without food. Start treatment as soon as possible, ideally within 72 hours of the rash appearing. Complete the full 7-day course.

What is the difference between Valaciclovir and Aciclovir for shingles?

Both achieve the same antiviral effect — valaciclovir is converted to aciclovir in the body. The main advantage of valaciclovir is convenience: 1 g three times daily (valaciclovir) versus 800 mg five times daily (aciclovir). This simpler dosing regimen typically improves adherence, especially for older patients managing multiple medications. Clinical efficacy and safety profiles are equivalent. The choice is usually based on availability and patient preference.

Can I get Valaciclovir for shingles through Pharmacy First?

Yes, the NHS Pharmacy First service enables pharmacists to assess shingles and supply antiviral treatment including valaciclovir. The pharmacist will confirm the diagnosis, check timing of onset, and determine whether antiviral treatment is appropriate. Early treatment (within 72 hours) is important for best outcomes. This is a free NHS service.

What are the side effects of Valaciclovir for shingles?

Common side effects include nausea, headache, and dizziness. Less common effects include vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and skin rash. Maintain good hydration during treatment. Elderly patients or those with kidney impairment may need dose adjustment — the pharmacist will check this. Neuropsychiatric effects (confusion, agitation, hallucinations) are rare but more common in elderly patients or those with renal impairment. Overall, valaciclovir is well-tolerated.

What should I do if I develop shingles near my eye?

Shingles affecting the eye or forehead (ophthalmic shingles / herpes zoster ophthalmicus) is a medical emergency. If the rash involves the tip of the nose (Hutchinson’s sign), the forehead, or the area around the eye, seek same-day review by a GP or attend eye casualty. Ophthalmic shingles can cause serious eye damage including corneal scarring and vision loss if not treated urgently. Antiviral treatment should still be started, but specialist review is essential.

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