Valacyclovir is an oral antiviral drug which is active against the Herpes viruses. Itis used to treat infections with herpes zoster ( shingles ),herpes simplex genitalis (genital herpes), and herpes labialis (cold sores). Valacyclovir inhibits the replication of viral DNA which is necessary for viruses to reproduce themselves. Valacyclovir is actually a "prodrug," in that it is not active itself. Rather, it is converted to acyclovir in the body, and it is the acyclovir that is active against the viruses. (Acyclovir itself is available as a topical, oral and intravenous medication.) Valacyclovir, therefore, is active against the same viruses as acyclovir, but valacyclovir has a longer duration of action than acyclovir, and, therefore, can be taken fewer times each day. Valacyclovir was approved for use by the FDA in 1995.
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