Valaciclovir

Shingles: 1 g three times daily for 7 days. Fewer doses than aciclovir.

Antiviral (aciclovir prodrug)Reviewed October 2026
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Dose

IndicationDose
Shingles1 g 3 times daily for 7 days
Genital herpes (first episode)1 g twice daily for 7–10 days
Cold sores2 g twice daily for 1 day

Kidney

Reduce dose; confusion and hallucinations in the elderly with poor kidney function.

Frequently asked questions

Is valaciclovir better than aciclovir for shingles?

Equally effective, with easier dosing; aciclovir is cheaper.

Used in these guides

Sources

  1. Drugs.com: Valacyclovir dosage

Doses on this page are typical doses from the sources above. Always confirm with a current drug reference, the product leaflet and your hospital protocol, especially in children, pregnancy and kidney or liver disease.