Get a valacyclovir (Valtrex) prescription online 

Responsive time: 24 – 48 hours
Service available nationwide

*Average online dermatologist response time from July-September 2026: 18.6 hours

  • Board-certified dermatologists
  • No medication subscriptions
  • Choice of pharmacy

Valacyclovir is commonly prescribed for the conditions listed below.

require acyclovir prescription

Dermatologist  Dr. Eric Howell
Medically reviewed by:
Dr. Eric Howell
Dermatologist

What is valacyclovir (Valtrex)?

Dr. Eric Howell, board-certified dermatologist says that Valacyclovir (commercially sold under the name Valtrex) is an antiviral medication used to treat infections caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV) and varicella-zoster virus (VZV). It is a prodrug, meaning it converts into its active form, acyclovir, in the body. Compared to acyclovir, valacyclovir has better absorption when taken orally, allowing for less frequent dosing while maintaining effective antiviral activity. This convenience makes it a popular choice for managing herpes infections, reducing symptom severity, and shortening the duration of outbreaks. It can also be used as suppressive therapy to reduce the frequency of recurrent outbreaks and lower the risk of transmission to others.

why is valacyclovir used

What is valacyclovir (Valtrex) used for?

Valacyclovir is used to treat and manage several viral infections caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV) and the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). Its primary uses include:

girl with oral herpes
  • Cold sores (herpes labialis)

It helps to reduce the severity and duration of outbreaks when taken early in the course of symptoms.

  • Chickenpox

In some cases, it may be used to treat chickenpox in children and adults who are at higher risk of complications.

  • Genital herpes

It treats active outbreaks and is also used as suppressive therapy to reduce the frequency of recurrences and lower the risk of transmission.

  • Prevention of viral transmission

For people with genital herpes, valacyclovir can lower the risk of passing the virus to a partner when used in combination with safer sex practices.

  • Shingles (Herpes zoster)

It is prescribed to shorten the duration of the outbreak and alleviate pain associated with shingles.

Can I buy valacyclovir (Valtrex) without a prescription?

No, you need a doctor’s prescription to get valacyclovir.

How to get a valacyclovir (Valtrex) prescription online?

To request a valacyclovir prescription you can have a consultation with a dermatologist via Miiskin. If it’s adequate for your condition, they will send a digital prescription in 24 hours or less to the pharmacy of your choice. Consultation fee is $59-$79 for new patients and $39-$49 for existing patients.

Where to buy valacyclovir (Valtrex) online?

Once your dermatologist has issued your prescription you can order it online or buy it at a local pharmacy for faster treatment.

request a prescription for valacyclovir

Get a valacyclovir (Valtrex) prescription via Miiskin

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Process to getting a prescription for (Valtrex) valacyclovir online
With a virtual consultation via Miiskin you will connect with an online dermatologist. Upon reviewing your case, if the dermatologist determines if valacyclovir is adequate for you, they will issue a prescription to the pharmacy of your choosing.

herpes zoster skin condition

How does valacyclovir (Valtrex) work?

Dr. Howell says Valacyclovir is a prodrug, meaning it is an inactive form that converts into its active form, acyclovir, once inside the body. After being absorbed, it is processed in the liver and intestines into acyclovir, which targets an enzyme called viral DNA polymerase. This enzyme is essential for the virus to replicate its DNA and spread. By blocking this process, valacyclovir slows or stops the virus, reducing the severity and length of outbreaks. Its design allows for better absorption than acyclovir, meaning fewer doses are needed. While it doesn’t cure the infection, it helps control symptoms, speeds healing, and lowers the risk of transmission.

Common valacyclovir (Valtrex) strengths and dosages

Oral tablets or capsules: 500 mg tablets and 1 g tablets.

Dr. Howell says the typical valacyclovir dosages are the following:

IncludedCold Sores (HSV-1): 2 grams twice in one day, 12 hours apart (single-day therapy).



IncludedGenital Herpes (HSV-2): First outbreak: 1 gram twice daily for 7–10 days. Recurring outbreaks: 500 mg twice daily for 3 days. Suppressive therapy: 500 mg to 1 gram once daily, depending on frequency of outbreaks.



IncludedShingles (Herpes Zoster): 1 gram three times daily for 7 days.



IncludedChickenpox (Varicella): Dosed by weight, usually 20 mg/kg three times daily for 5 days, up to a maximum of 1 gram per dose.



pills and tablets

Side effects of valacyclovir (Valtrex)

Valacyclovir is typically well-tolerated; however, like any medication, it may cause side effects. These effects can vary in severity from mild to serious, influenced by the method of administration (oral, topical, or intravenous) and the individual’s overall health.

  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Abdominal pain
  • Headache
  • Fatigue or dizziness4
acyclovir side effects