From the Guidelines
For the initial outbreak of genital herpes, the recommended dosing of Valtrex (valacyclovir) is 1 g orally twice a day for 7-10 days. This recommendation is based on the guidelines for treatment of sexually transmitted diseases published in 1998 by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 1. The dosing regimen is designed to reduce the severity and duration of symptoms, promote faster healing of sores, and decrease pain.
Key points to consider when taking Valtrex for the initial outbreak of genital herpes include:
- Starting treatment as soon as possible after symptoms appear for maximum effectiveness
- Taking the full course of medication even if symptoms improve before completion
- Staying well-hydrated while taking Valtrex
- Taking the medication with or without food consistently
- Being aware of common side effects such as headache, nausea, or dizziness
- Avoiding sexual contact during outbreaks to prevent transmission to partners
- Contacting a healthcare provider immediately if severe side effects occur, such as unusual bruising, extreme fatigue, or signs of kidney problems.
It's essential to note that while Valtrex treats symptoms and reduces viral shedding, it does not cure herpes. Therefore, patients should be aware of the importance of practicing safe sex and seeking medical attention if symptoms recur or worsen over time, as indicated in the treatment guidelines 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
Genital Herpes Initial Episode: The recommended dosage of VALTREX for treatment of initial genital herpes is 1 gram twice daily for 10 days. Therapy was most effective when administered within 48 hours of the onset of signs and symptoms. The recommended dosing of Valtrex (valacyclovir) for the initial outbreak of genital herpes is:
- 1 gram twice daily
- For 10 days
- Therapy should be initiated within 48 hours of the onset of signs and symptoms 2
From the Research
Recommended Dosing of Valtrex for Genital Herpes Initial Outbreak
- The recommended dosing of Valtrex (valacyclovir) for the initial outbreak of genital herpes is not explicitly stated in the provided studies.
- However, the studies suggest that valacyclovir is effective in suppressing recurrent episodes of genital herpes, with dosages of 500-1000 mg/day recommended for suppression of genital herpes recurrences in immunocompetent individuals 3.
- For the treatment of herpes simplex, herpes zoster, and other viral infections, valacyclovir has been shown to be effective, with dosages of 500-1000 mg/day commonly used 4.
- A study comparing the efficacy of famciclovir and valacyclovir for suppression of recurrent genital herpes and viral shedding found that valacyclovir appeared to be somewhat better than famciclovir for suppression of genital herpes and associated shedding, with a dosage of 500 mg qd used in the study 5.
- A Cochrane review of oral antiviral therapy for prevention of genital herpes outbreaks in immunocompetent and nonpregnant patients found that valacyclovir, acyclovir, and famciclovir were all effective in reducing the risk of having at least one clinical recurrence, with valacyclovir dosages of 500-1000 mg/day commonly used 6.
- A meta-analysis to assess the efficacy of oral antiviral treatment to prevent genital herpes outbreaks found that valacyclovir 500 mg once daily was one of the effective regimens for prophylaxis against recurrent genital herpes 7.
Dosage Information
- Valacyclovir 500-1000 mg/day is recommended for suppression of genital herpes recurrences in immunocompetent individuals 3.
- Valacyclovir 500 mg qd is an effective regimen for prophylaxis against recurrent genital herpes 5, 7.
- Valacyclovir 1000 mg/day has been used in studies for the treatment of herpes simplex, herpes zoster, and other viral infections 4.