Order Valacyclovir

Chickenpox, shingles, cold sores, and genital herpes all have something in common. Each is caused by a virus that is a member of the herpes family of viruses. Does that mean that chickenpox can turn into a case of genital herpes? No, they are completely different viruses, but the fact that they all have herpes in their name can be confusing.

Cold sores and genital herpes are caused by the herpes simplex virus; chickenpox and shingles are caused by the herpes zoster virus. What they have in common is that they cause blisters that are red, itchy, sometimes painful, and the virus is extremely contagious, meaning it is easily passed to another person.

Most adults who were children before the chickenpox vaccine was invented have had a case of chickenpox. Unless their case was very mild, they generally are immune to chickenpox and will not get it again. Not so with cold sores, shingles, and genital herpes. These conditions can recur, especially during times of stress or when the immune system is weakened. Outbreaks of the blisters can cause pain, burning, and itching, and the infected person must be careful not to spread the virus to another while the blisters are present.

Fortunately, antiviral medications are available that can help. Valacyclovir (VAL-ay-SYE-kloe-vir), when taken at the first sign of an outbreak, can decrease the number of blisters and helps those that form to heal faster and with less pain.

Valacyclovir will not cure the disease or prevent it from spreading to others. Any time blisters are present, care must be taken to prevent contact with another and potentially passing the disease. Valacyclovir is not a cure, but it can decrease pain, speed healing, and, in genital herpes, help prevent future outbreaks.

For maximum benefit, start valacyclovir at the first sign of an outbreak, itching, burning, pain, or blisters. It is best if started within 48 hours for the initial outbreak and within 24 hours for subsequent episodes. For chickenpox, it should be started within the first day, if possible.

Valacyclovir is a tablet taken by mouth and can be taken on an empty stomach or with food. Because the dose, how often it is taken, and for how long varies depending on the reason for use, it is important to follow the prescription instructions and continue the medication until gone. This means to continue taking the pills even though no new blisters are forming and the condition seems to be resolving.

Variations of the herpes virus cause cold sores, chickenpox, shingles, and genital herpes. Treatment with valacyclovir can result in fewer blisters, less pain, and faster healing.