Valacyclovir Online
Brand names: Valtrex
Valacyclovir is an FDA-approved oral antiviral for herpes simplex (cold sores and genital herpes) and shingles. It is a generic version of Valtrex and is inexpensive. Telehealth services prescribe it for short courses during outbreaks, or daily as suppressive therapy to cut down outbreaks and reduce the chance of passing genital herpes to a partner. It does not cure herpes.
Prices last checked · each provider's date is under its price
* Prices are based on our most recent research and may not reflect current pricing. Verify directly with the provider.
How Valacyclovir Works
Valacyclovir is converted in the body to acyclovir, which blocks the herpes virus from copying its DNA. That shortens outbreaks when started early and, taken daily, reduces how often the virus reactivates and sheds. In a large trial of couples, once-daily valacyclovir in the infected partner cut genital herpes transmission by about half, and the FDA has approved it for reducing transmission.
What to Expect
For outbreaks, start at the first tingle or within 24 hours of symptoms. Cold sore treatment is a single day; genital herpes episodes are usually treated for 3–10 days. Suppressive therapy is taken once daily on an ongoing basis and is typically reassessed about once a year.
Valacyclovir Pricing Comparison
Sorted by lowest starting price.
Prices shown are based on our most recent research and may not reflect current pricing. Telehealth providers update their pricing frequently. Always verify pricing directly with the provider before purchasing.
| Provider | Score | Product | Price/mo | Includes | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wisp | 74 | Herpes / Cold Sore Antiviral Treatment | $40–$70 checked | ● Consults● Shipping○ Labs | Visit |
| TeleDirectMD | 67 | Genital Herpes Treatment Visit | $79 checked | ● Consults○ Shipping○ Labs | Visit |
| Shameless Care | 66 | Valacyclovir (herpes) | $109–$219 checked | ● Consults● Shipping○ Labs | Visit |
| Twentyeight Health | 75 | Herpes Treatment (valacyclovir, acyclovir) | Quoted after consult checked | ● Consults● Shipping○ Labs | Visit |
Common Side Effects
- •Headache
- •Nausea
- •Stomach pain
- •Dizziness
Serious Side Effects
- !Kidney injury, especially in older adults or if dehydrated
- !Confusion, agitation, or hallucinations, mainly in older adults or people with kidney disease
- !A rare blood disorder (TTP/HUS) reported in people with severely weakened immune systems on high doses
Valacyclovir Is Not For
- ✗People allergic to valacyclovir or acyclovir
- ✗People with kidney disease, unless the dose is adjusted by their prescriber
Valacyclovir — Frequently Asked Questions
Does valacyclovir cure herpes?
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No. The virus stays dormant in nerve cells. Valacyclovir shortens outbreaks and, taken daily, reduces how often they happen and how often the virus sheds.
Does valacyclovir prevent spreading herpes to a partner?
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It lowers the risk but doesn't eliminate it. Daily suppressive valacyclovir cut genital herpes transmission by about half in a large trial of couples. Condoms and avoiding sex during outbreaks reduce the risk further.
Can I get valacyclovir online?
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Yes. Telehealth services commonly prescribe it after an online consultation, including a standing prescription you can keep on hand to start at the first sign of an outbreak.
What is the difference between valacyclovir and acyclovir?
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Valacyclovir turns into acyclovir in the body but is absorbed much better, so it is taken fewer times a day. Both are generic; acyclovir is often slightly cheaper but requires more frequent dosing.
Medical disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice.Valacyclovir requires a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. Side effects, risks, and suitability vary by individual. Always consult your doctor before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. Telehealth Match is not a healthcare provider.
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