Valacyclovir

Valacyclovir is an antiviral drug. It slows the growth and spread of the herpes virus to help the body fight the infection. It is used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses, including genital herpes, cold sores, and shingles (herpes zoster) in adults.

Valacyclovir is an antiviral drug. It stops the growth of certain viruses. However, it is not a cure for these infections. It helps the sores heal faster, keeps new sores from forming, and decreases pain/itching. This medication may also help reduce how long pain remains after the sores heal.