Valtrex is a brand name for the antiviral medication valacyclovir [1]. Both terms refer to the same active pharmaceutical ingredient, valacyclovir hydrochloride [2].
Why the Different Names?
Valtrex is the trade name under which GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) markets valacyclovir [3]. This is a common practice in the pharmaceutical industry, where a drug's active ingredient may have one generic name and several brand names.
How Does Valacyclovir Work?
Valacyclovir is a prodrug of acyclovir [4]. After administration, it is rapidly converted to acyclovir in the body [4]. Acyclovir works by inhibiting viral DNA replication [4]. It is particularly effective against herpes simplex virus (HSV) types 1 and 2, and varicella-zoster virus (VZV) [5].
What Conditions Does Valacyclovir Treat?
Valacyclovir is prescribed to treat outbreaks of genital herpes and cold sores (herpes simplex), and to prevent outbreaks in individuals with recurrent infections [5]. It is also used to treat shingles (herpes zoster) and chickenpox (varicella) [5].
When Does Valacyclovir Go Off-Patent?
Information regarding specific patent expiry dates for Valatex (valacyclovir) is available through resources like DrugPatentWatch.com, which tracks patent and exclusivity information for pharmaceuticals [6]. Pharmaceutical patents generally last for 20 years from the filing date, but extensions and other forms of market exclusivity can affect the period during which generic versions can enter the market [7].
Can Generic Valacyclovir Be Used?
Yes, once the patent and exclusivity protections expire, generic versions of valacyclovir become available. These generic formulations contain the same active ingredient and are therapeutically equivalent to the brand-name drug, Valtex [8]. Using generic medications can often lead to lower healthcare costs [8].