Healthdirect Free Australian health advice you can count on.

Medical problem? Call 1800 022 222. If you need urgent medical help, call triple zero immediately

healthdirect Australia is a free service where you can talk to a nurse or doctor who can help you know what to do.

beginning of content

Valtrex TM

You should seek medical advice in relation to medicines and use only as directed by a healthcare professional. Always read the label. If symptoms persist see your healthcare professional.

Active ingredients: valaciclovir

Brand name

(ARTG)

: VALTREX valaciclovir 500mg (as hydrochloride) tablet blister pack

Download the Consumer Medicine Information Leaflet

Download consumer medicine information leaflet (pdf) from the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) website

What this medicine is used for

(ARTG)

For the treatment of herpes zoster (shingles) in adult patients who commence therapy within 72 hours of the onset of rash. For the treatment of ophthalmic zoster. For the treatment of recurrent herpes labialis (cold sores) For the treatment of clinical episodes of genital herpes simplex infections. For the prevention of recurrent genital herpes. Reduction of transmission of genital herpes in patients suffering from recurrent genital herpes. In addition to therapy with Valtrex, it is recommended that patients use safer sex practices. (See PRECAUTIONS). Prophylaxis of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection and disease following solid organ transplantation in patients at risk of CMV disease.

How to use this medicine

(ARTG)

This medicine contains one component only.

Component :

  • Tablet, film coated
  • Oral
  • White, film coated tablet, white to off-white core, biconvex, elongated, unscored engraved with "500" on one side and plain on the other

Storage conditions

(ARTG)

  • Store below 30 degrees Celsius
  • Shelf lifetime is 3 Years.

Do I need a prescription ?

(ARTG)

These medicine packs are available from a pharmacist and requires a prescription. It is Schedule 4 : Prescription Only Medicine.

  • 10 tablets, 20 tablets pack
  • 2 tablets starter pack pack
  • 240 tablets, 480 tablets, 80 tablets pack
  • 30 tablets, 42 tablets, 60 tablets pack
  • 4 tablets, 6 tablets pack
  • 8 x 500 mg tablet blister pack pack
  • 90 tablets, 100 tablets pack

Is this medicine subsidised ?

(PBS)

This medicine was verified as being available on the PBS (Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme) on November, 1 2024. To learn more about this subsidy, visit the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) website.

Pregnant or planning a pregnancy ?

(AHT)

For the active ingredient valaciclovir

You should seek advice from your doctor or pharmacist about taking this medicine. They can help you balance the risks and the benefits of this medicine during pregnancy.

Reporting side effects

You can help ensure medicines are safe by reporting the side effects you experience.

You can report side effects to your doctor, or directly at www.tga.gov.au/reporting-problems

Back to top back to top

Healthdirect 24hr 7 days a week hotline

24 hour health advice you can count on

1800 022 222

Government Accredited with over 140 information partners

We are a government-funded service, providing quality, approved health information and advice

Australian Government, health department logo ACT Government logo New South Wales government, health department logo Northen Territory Government logo Queensland Government logo Government of South Australia, health department logo Tasmanian government logo Victorian government logo Government of Western Australia, health department logo

Healthdirect Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to the Traditional Owners and to Elders both past and present.