Variety of delivery options including next day & free delivery.
Pharmacy, clinic and prescribers based in Greater Manchester.
Start your treatment with a quick and free online consultation.
Variety of delivery options including next day & free delivery.
Pharmacy, clinic and prescribers based in Greater Manchester.
Start your treatment with a quick and free online consultation.
Fill in a quick online consultation for our licensed pharmacists to review.
Our pharmacists will review your treatment to ensure it’s suitable.
Your treatment will be delivered to your door quickly & discreetly.
| Medication Name | Valtrex |
| Type and Form of Medicine | Antiviral Tablet |
| What it Does | Treats viral infections |
| Active Ingredients | Valaciclovir |
| Strength | 500mg |
| Size | 10 tablets |
| Patient Information Leaflet | Click here |
Valtrex 500mg Tablets are an antiviral medication used to treat infections caused by certain types of viruses. The active ingredient, valaciclovir, helps to reduce the severity and duration of these infections. Valtrex is commonly prescribed for conditions such as genital herpes, cold sores, and shingles. The tablets work by stopping the virus from multiplying, which helps to control the infection and reduce symptoms.
Valtrex 500mg Tablets are primarily used to treat genital herpes. Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. Valtrex helps to reduce the severity and duration of outbreaks, and it can also be used to prevent future outbreaks.
In addition to genital herpes, Valtrex 500mg Tablets are also used to treat other conditions, including:
Valtrex 500mg Tablets contain valaciclovir, which is converted into aciclovir in the body. Aciclovir interferes with the virus’s ability to replicate by inhibiting the viral DNA polymerase enzyme. This action prevents the virus from multiplying and spreading, allowing the body’s immune system to control the infection more effectively. By reducing the viral load, Valtrex helps to alleviate symptoms and speed up the healing process.
Valtrex 500mg Tablets are suitable for adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older who need treatment for viral infections such as genital herpes, cold sores, and shingles. The medication is also suitable for people who require long-term suppression of genital herpes to reduce the frequency of outbreaks.
However, Valtrex 500mg Tablets may not be suitable for everyone. People with the following conditions should consult their doctor or pharmacist before taking Valtrex:
Take Valtrex 500mg Tablets twice a day, approximately 12 hours apart. Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding the dosage and duration of treatment.
To treat genital herpes, take Valtrex 500mg Tablets for 5 to 10 days, depending on the severity of the infection. Your doctor will advise you on the appropriate duration of treatment.
Like all medications, Valtrex 500mg Tablets can cause side effects. Below are some common, uncommon, and serious side effects you may experience.
For a full list of side effects, please refer to the patient information leaflet.
Active Ingredients: The active ingredient in Valtrex 500mg Tablets is valaciclovir.
Other Ingredients: The tablets also contain microcrystalline cellulose, crospovidone, povidone, magnesium stearate, hypromellose, titanium dioxide, macrogol, and polysorbate 80.
Please note that inactive ingredients can vary depending on the manufacturer. If you have any known allergies or hypersensitivities, including peanut (arachis) oil, lactose, gelatin, soy, or certain dyes and preservatives, inform us during your consultation and carefully review the ingredient list prior to use.
Page content authored by Amjad Khan, last reviewed by Dr Hussain Ahmad on 20th April 2026.
