Properties Of The Valtrex Drug and Its Application
The
Valtrex drug is also known through its generic
name valacyclovir, and is primarily prescribed
against symptoms of various types of herpes
viruses. Included in this are herpes zoster
with the common name of shingles, herpes simplex
genitals with the common name of genital herpes,
and herpes labialis with the common name of
cold sores.
One of the important characteristics
of Valtrex or valacyclovir is that it functions
as a "prodrug", implying that on its
own it is not active against the said viruses
of herpes. Instead, it is converted to acyclovir
in the human body, and it is this acyclovir
which actually serves as an active agent against
the viruses.
Another important function of Valacyclovir
is that it has a longer duration of action against
its compatriot drug Acyclovir, thereby making
it more useful, effective and requiring fewer
doses per day.
Though a normal dose of Valacyclovir
consists of 1 mg taken three times a day, and
for a minimum of 7 days. In addition, the recurrence
of herpes calls for doses of 500 mg taken twice
on a daily basis. However, for best results,
it is suggested that treatment is commenced
within 12 hours of the onset of the symptoms
of herpes.
Yet the best form of medication
can only be prescribed by the consulting physician,
and too after assessing the nature and condition
of the rashes, or the onset of the viruses. |
