Transcript: If you have herpes, you’ll want to know about a medication called Valtrex!  Herpes is caused by the spread of the HSV virus, which can result in painful sores on the genitals, and is typically spread through sexual contact.  Once a person gets herpes, it lives in the body forever, and there is no cure. But there is help! Enter valacyclovir, a medication branded as Valtrex, which is taken once daily to help significantly reduce herpes outbreaks.  While there are other medications available, Valtrex is the only one proven to reduce the spread of herpes to other sexual partners.  Valtrex can be used to diminish the severity and length of two other related outbreaks: cold sores on the mouth and shingles on the body. Both of these symptoms stem from variations of the HSV virus, and both respond to valacyclovir when it is taken at the beginning of the outbreak.  However, this medication is not for pregnant women, and may cause side effects including headaches, nausea, and dizziness. Valtrex is only available via a doctor’s prescription, so talk to your health care provider if you think you’re a candidate for this medication!