HOME DELIVERY

The benefits of having medication delivered

Non-adherence to medication is a major reason why treatments shown to be effective in trials are often less effective in clinical practice.​

Medicine home delivery helps improve care by ensuring patients have their medication when they need it. This increases treatment adherence and saves unnecessary trips to traditional pharmacies like Chemist Warehouse.

That’s why 92% of users of the Chemist2U app report that the app is a helpful tool to maintain their healthcare.*

Learn more about the benefits of home delivery of medication in this article reviewed by our medical team.

Some important information on Valtrex (Valaciclovir)

Valtrex (valaciclovir) has been demonstrated to be effective for various conditions, including herpes viruses or the treatment of cold sores. If you are curious about this medication, you can learn more about it here. A doctor can determine whether this medication is right for you, and for your medication needs, we at Chemist2U can bridge the gap between you and your nearest pharmacy.  

How does Valtrex (Valaciclovir) work?

Valtrex (Valaciclovir) is widely used as a herpes medication for herpes zoster (shingles), ophthalmic zoster, and the recurrent appearance of cold sores and genital herpes. When initiated within seventy-two hours of a shingles rash, this herpes treatment may be able to reduce the intensity and duration of shingles and help prevent some of the complications associated with shingles. This cold sore remedy can also reduce the transmission of genital herpes in patients who suffer from recurring genital herpes.^[1] It reduced the duration of viral shedding, hastened lesion healing, and decreased lesion-associated pain in patients with first or recurrent genital herpes. In addition, valaciclovir has been seen to suppress recurrences of genital herpes and significantly prolong the time until the next episode compared to a placebo.^[2]  

How do you take Valtrex (Valaciclovir)?

Viral infection treatments like Valtrex (Valaciclovir) must be taken according to your doctor’s or pharmacist’s instructions. To ensure its effectiveness, please store it below 25 degrees Celsius in a dry place and take note of the shelf life indicated on the packaging.^[3] A patient’s Valtrex dosage can also vary depending on specific conditions, especially for long-term usage.  

Who can take Valtrex (Valaciclovir)?

Aside from the indications mentioned above, valaciclovir can also be used to treat chickenpox in children. We have mentioned that valacyclovir was developed as an oral therapy for infections caused by herpes viruses. This can include viruses that are less sensitive to acyclovir than HSV, which may require greater exposure to achieve antiviral suppression as well as reduce the frequency of dosages.^[4] Some individuals may wonder if Valtrex (Valaciclovir) is safe to use throughout gestation. During animal studies, the foetus was not adversely affected; however, this medication has not yet been evaluated adequately for the case of pregnant women. Pregnant women might be advised to only use Valtrex (Valaciclovir) when the impact on the mother outweighs the risks to the foetus. Additionally, it has not been established whether this medication is safe for breastfeeding infants. Doctors may ask their patients to consider methods other than breastfeeding if valaciclovir must be taken while nursing.^[5]  

Side effects of Valtrex (Valaciclovir)

Valaciclovir, a widely trusted antiviral medication, is generally well-tolerated. However, like all prescription drugs, it may have side effects. You may experience headaches, gastrointestinal discomforts such as vomiting, nausea, or abdominal pain, and other symptoms like dry mouth, fever, or skin rash.^[6] In patients with kidney conditions or those on high doses, sensitivity to UV light, dizziness, and confusion might occur.^[7] Notably, while valaciclovir has a good general tolerance, it’s important to be aware of serious side effects like neurotoxicity, which predominantly affects individuals with advanced age or impaired renal function. Symptoms like confusion, hallucinations, and altered consciousness typically emerge after three days of treatment but are reversible within a week or less.^[8] If you experience any concerns or symptoms with your Valtrex (Valaciclovir) regimen, consult your doctor.  

Valtrex (Valaciclovir) and other medications

Valtrex (Valaciclovir) may interact with a range of medications, including lithium, methotrexate, certain pain or arthritis medications, drugs used to treat ulcerative colitis, medicines for organ transplant rejection prevention, IV antibiotics, other antiviral medicines, and cancer treatments.^[9] This only underscores the importance of discussing all medications and supplements you’re taking with your doctor. Aside from valaciclovir therapy, your doctor may advise you to use condoms and birth control medications to prevent further sexually transmitted diseases.  

Medicines you should not use with Valtrex (Valaciclovir)

Valaciclovir is generally compatible with many medications, but it’s crucial to navigate its use with care. Notable serious interactions include bacitracin and talimogene laherparepvec.^[10]It is advised not to start, stop, or alter the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor. If you have any concerns or need more detailed information about valaciclovir, don’t hesitate to seek professional medical advice.  

How to order Valtrex (Valaciclovir) through Chemist2U

Ordering your prescriptions and pharmacy goods with Chemist2U is a seamless experience designed with your convenience in mind, so you can say goodbye to looking up ‘chemist near me’. Begin by downloading our user-friendly app or use this website to shop or upload your eScript. The next step after uploading your e prescription is to add any over-the-counter medication and general pharmacy products to your cart, just like you would at a physical pharmacy. From here, you can rest easy in the knowledge that your order is being carefully handled by a qualified partner pharmacist in your local area. Enjoy the ultimate convenience of same-day delivery, straight to your door. At Chemist2U, we’re committed to making your medication as easy as possible. Order home delivery at Chemist2U today!

 

References

 

[1] https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/medicines/brand/amt,659941000168102/valaciclovir-an

[2] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9118821/

[3] https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/medicines/brand/amt,659941000168102/valaciclovir-an

[4] https://academic.oup.com/jid/article/186/Supplement_1/S40/837474

[5] https://www.rxlist.com/Valtrex-drug.htm

[6] https://www.nps.org.au/assets/medicines/65ec0088-3788-4f87-9b0d-ad8800e45ab4.pdf

[7] https://www.nps.org.au/assets/medicines/65ec0088-3788-4f87-9b0d-ad8800e45ab4.pdf

[8] https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jcpt.13464

[9] https://www.rxlist.com/Valtrex-drug.htm

[10] https://www.rxlist.com/valacyclovir/generic-drug.htm

 

Disclaimer

Chemist2U does not endorse the therapeutic benefit of any medication. Any decision to administer a therapeutic good should be taken in consultation with your doctor.