Valacyclovir is an antiviral medication. It delays the development and spread of the herpes virus to support the body fight the infection. This medication is prescribed to treat infections provoked by herpes viruses, including cold sores, genital herpes, and shingles (herpes zoster) in adults. It is even utilized to treat cold sores in kids who are at least 12 years old or chickenpox in kids who are at least 2 years old. The drug will not cure herpes and will not stop you from spreading the virus to different individuals. However, this treatment can reduce the symptoms of an infection.