Is Valtrex Used For Treating Shingles?

Is Valtrex used for treating shingles? An outbreak of shingles (herpes zoster) may send you to the doctor for relief from the painful blisters and rash. After a visual inspection you may be prescribed a number of drugs (including Valtrex) to avoid further rash while clearing up the rash that exists. Pain that is associated with shingles will not disappear using Valtrex.

Valtrex is used to treat shingles (herpes zoster) and will stop new blisters sooner than if not used. Valtrex works by helping the body fight infection by stopping the multiplication of the virus. Valtrex will not permanently cure the virus, but will speed the healing of the virus if started early. The drug must be administered within one to three days to be effective. The virus will still remain dormant in the nerve cells of the infected person's body.

Valtrex used for treating shingles may be prescribed in generic or label form. The generic form is called valacyclovir hydrochloride. Your health insurance benefits or personal preference may dictate if brand or generic form will be prescribed and filled.

When Valtrex is used for treating shingles, be sure your physician is aware of any other medications, herbal supplements or vitamins you are currently taking as drug interaction can occur. If seeing a new doctor about Valtrex used for treating shingles, be sure to make the physician aware of previous or current kidney failure, transplant or disease, bone marrow, immune disorders, allergies, depression, HIV or AIDS.