What is the brand name for Valacyclovir?
The brand name for Valacyclovir is Valtrex.
PTCE Top 200 · #98
Valacyclovir
Valtrex
Valacyclovir is the generic name for the brand-name drug Valtrex. It is an antiviral (herpes) used to treat herpes (HSV, shingles). On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Valacyclovir ranks #98 and is one of the most frequently tested infectious disease medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Valacyclovir |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Valtrex |
| Drug class | Antiviral (herpes) |
| Class group | Infectious Disease |
| Common use | herpes (HSV, shingles) |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Prescription only (Rx) |
What is Valacyclovir used for?
Antiviral used to treat herpes simplex (cold sores, genital herpes) and shingles (herpes zoster); also used for suppression of recurrent genital herpes.
What drug class is Valacyclovir?
Valacyclovir is an Antiviral (herpes) in the Infectious Disease group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Valacyclovir
- arrow_rightHeadache
- arrow_rightNausea
- arrow_rightAbdominal pain
- arrow_rightDizziness
- arrow_rightFatigue
Major interactions
- arrow_rightOther nephrotoxic drugs (e.g., aminoglycosides, high‑dose NSAIDs) ↑ kidney injury risk—maintain hydration
- arrow_rightProbenecid or cimetidine may ↑ valacyclovir/acyclovir levels (reduced renal clearance)
Is Valacyclovir a controlled substance?
No. Valacyclovir is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
How to remember Valacyclovir (PTCE mnemonic)
VAL-trex = VALacyclovir → prodrug of acyclovir for HSV/VZV. Better bioavailability than acyclovir; HYDRATE → crystalluria/AKI; start early in outbreak.
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PTCE exam tip
Valacyclovir (Valtrex) is an antiviral for herpes / shingles — the -cyclovir suffix flags the class; it's a prodrug of acyclovir.
Valacyclovir FAQ
What is Valacyclovir used for?
Valacyclovir is used to treat herpes (HSV, shingles). Antiviral used to treat herpes simplex (cold sores, genital herpes) and shingles (herpes zoster); also used for suppression of recurrent genital herpes.
What drug class is Valacyclovir?
Valacyclovir is an Antiviral (herpes) (Infectious Disease group).
Is Valacyclovir a controlled substance?
No. Valacyclovir is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Related drugs in the Infectious Disease group
Drill Valacyclovir the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).