Valtrex alternatives: Prescription, OTC, and natural option

In this article:

• What can I take instead of Valtrex?
• Top 3 Valtrex alternatives
• Over-the-counter treatments
• Natural alternatives
• How to switch to a Valtrex alternative

In this article

• What can I take instead of Valtrex?
• Top 3 Valtrex alternatives
• Over-the-counter treatments
• Natural alternatives
• How to switch to a Valtrex alternative

Valtrex (valacyclovir) is a brand-name prescription medication approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat viral infections caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV) and varicella zoster virus (VZV). These viruses cause infections such as cold sores, genital herpes, herpes zoster (shingles), and chickenpox. As an antiviral drug, Valtrex is classified as a purine nucleoside analog and works by blocking viruses from multiplying (spreading) in the body.

Although Valtrex is an effective treatment option, not everyone is a candidate for Valtrex. The good news is that there are several alternatives you can discuss with your healthcare provider. 

What can I take instead of Valtrex?

Whether Valtrex is causing side effects or you aren’t a candidate for it, there are other options available that can treat viral infections like the herpes virus. These alternative prescription medications include other types of oral antiviral drugs and topical antiviral medications. One of these options may be more suitable for your needs as they each have different uses, side effect profiles, and dosages. 

The following table highlights some of the common alternatives to Valtrex.

Compare Valtrex alternatives
Drug name	Price without insurance	SingleCare price	Savings options
Valtrex  (valacylovir)	$512 for 30, 500 mg tablets	$11 for 30, 500 mg tablets of generic Valtrex	See latest prices
Zovirax  (acyclovir)	$595 for 1, 5gm of 5% tube of cream	$42 for 1, 5gm of 5% tube of cream of generic Zovirax	See latest prices
Famvir  (famciclovir)	$241 for 21, 500 mg tablets	$24 for 21, 500 mg tablets of generic Famvir	See latest prices
Denavir  (penciclovir)	$1052 for 1, 5gm of 1% tube of cream	$161 for 1, 5gm of 1% tube of cream of generic Denavir	See latest prices

Prescription drug prices often change. These are the most accurate medication prices at the time of publishing. The listed price without insurance references the price of brand-name drugs (unless otherwise specified). The listed SingleCare price references the price of generic drugs if available. Click the link under “Savings options” to see the latest drug prices.

Top 3 Valtrex alternatives

The following are some of the most common alternatives to Valtrex.

1. Zovirax (acyclovir)

Like Valtrex, Zovirax is a prescription antiviral medication FDA-approved to treat genital herpes, shingles, and chickenpox. It is available in multiple dosage forms, including oral tablets, oral capsules, creams, ointments, and injections. Compared to Zovirax, Valtrex is better absorbed in the body and requires less frequent dosing. However, both medications are generally covered by commercial and Medicare insurance plans. 

2. Famvir (famciclovir)

Famvir, also known as famciclovir, is another prescription antiviral medication. Like Valtrex, it is prescribed to treat cold sores, genital herpes, and shingles. It has one additional indication, which is for the treatment of orolabial (mouth and lip) herpes and genital herpes in adults with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). It comes as a tablet that is taken two to three times daily, depending on the condition being treated. In comparison, Valtrex is prescribed one to three times daily. Both cause similar adverse effects, such as headache and nausea. 

3. Denavir (penciclovir)

Another alternative to Valtrex is Denavir, which is a prescription antiviral cream used to treat cold sores in adults and children aged 12 years and older. It needs to be applied every two hours while awake for four days, so it requires more frequent dosing than Valtrex. Because it is a cream, the potential side effects of Denavir include reactions at the site of application, whereas common side effects of Valtrex include headache, nausea, and abdominal pain. 

Over-the-counter treatments

There are a few OTC options that can be used for cold sores. Keep in mind, these are not curative treatments like Valtrex. Instead, they provide symptom relief only. OTC options for cold sores include Abreva (docosanol), numbing agents, like Orajel, and pain relievers, like Tylenol (acetaminophen) and Advil (ibuprofen). While these options are more easily accessible and sometimes cheaper than Valtrex, you should always consult a healthcare provider before starting any new medications. 

Natural alternatives to Valtrex

Certain lifestyle changes may help manage symptoms of cold sores, shingles, genital herpes, and chickenpox. According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD), stress reduction, sun protection for your lips, maintaining lip moisture, and getting adequate sleep can all help reduce the likelihood of another cold sore. For shingles, the AAD recommends keeping the skin cool by applying a clean, cool, and damp washcloth, soaking in an oatmeal bath, or applying calamine lotion. They also recommend getting plenty of rest, stress reduction, and eating healthy, well-balanced meals. For chickenpox, you can try colloidal oatmeal baths, calamine lotion, and petroleum jelly. 

How to switch to a Valtrex alternative

Before switching to a Valtrex alternative, consult your healthcare provider. While there aren’t any withdrawal effects noted in the Valtrex’s prescribing information, stopping antiviral medications earlier than prescribed can cause your infection to worsen or come back. So, if Valtrex is causing side effects, or you feel it isn’t working, talk to a healthcare professional. They can provide medical advice on whether an alternative is a good idea and, if so, which one is best suited for you. Lastly, it is also important to consider the cost when switching medications. Contact your insurance provider to understand the financial implications of switching to a Valtrex alternative. 

Choosing the right path for antiviral treatment

Viral infections are often painful and disruptive to your everyday life. Antivirals, such as Valtrex, can help treat your infection. If you aren’t a candidate for Valtrex, talk to your health care provider about an alternative. Common alternatives include Zovirax, Famvir, and Denavir. They will take into account your medical history and other medications to help choose the right medication.