From the Guidelines
The recommended dose of Valacyclovir for herpes labialis is 2 grams twice daily for 1 day [ 1 ].
Key Considerations
- This dose can be taken 12 hours apart for optimal effectiveness [ 1 ].
- Alternatively, a dose of 1.5 grams as a single dose or 500 mg twice daily for 3 to 5 days may also be considered [ 1 ].
- It is crucial to initiate treatment at the first sign of a cold sore, such as tingling, itching, or burning, to achieve the best results [ 1 ].
- The safety profile of valacyclovir for herpes labialis is well-established, with minimal adverse events reported, including headache, nausea, and diarrhea [ 1 ].
From the FDA Drug Label
The recommended dosage of VALTREX for treatment of cold sores is 2 grams twice daily for 1 day taken 12 hours apart. The recommended dosage of VALTREX for the treatment of cold sores in pediatric patients aged greater than or equal to 12 years is 2 grams twice daily for 1 day taken 12 hours apart.
The dose of Valacyclovir for herpes labialis is 2 grams twice daily for 1 day, taken 12 hours apart 2 2.
- This dose applies to both adults and pediatric patients aged 12 years and older.
- Therapy should be initiated at the earliest symptom of a cold sore.
From the Research
Dosage of Valacyclovir for Herpes Labialis
- The recommended dose of valacyclovir for herpes labialis is 2 g twice daily for 1 day 3, 4.
- This dose has been shown to be effective in reducing the duration of the episode, preventing lesion development, and reducing the time to lesion healing and cessation of pain and/or discomfort 3.
- A 1-day valacyclovir treatment regimen is considered safe and effective, and offers a convenient dosing alternative compared to available topical therapies 3.
- The efficacy of valacyclovir in treating herpes labialis has been demonstrated in two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies, which showed statistically significant reductions in the duration of the episode and the time to lesion healing compared to placebo 3, 4.