DR. ERWIN CHARLES WINKEL III MD
Prescription History 1093874331
Urology in Houston, TX

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

Alfuzosin is used by men to treat the symptoms of an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia-BPH). It does not shrink the prostate, but it works by relaxing the muscles in the prostate and the bladder. This helps to relieve symptoms of BPH such as difficulty in beginning the flow of urine, weak stream, and the need to urinate often or urgently (including during the middle of the night). Alfuzosin belongs to a class of drugs known as alpha blockers. Do not use this medication to treat high blood pressure.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

A XANTHINE OXIDASE inhibitor that decreases URIC ACID production. It also acts as an antimetabolite on some simpler organisms.

Allopurinol is used to treat gout and certain types of kidney stones. It is also used to prevent increased uric acid levels in patients receiving cancer chemotherapy. These patients can have increased uric acid levels due to release of uric acid from the dying cancer cells. Allopurinol works by reducing the amount of uric acid made by the body. Increased uric acid levels can cause gout and kidney problems.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

A broad-spectrum semisynthetic antibiotic similar to AMPICILLIN except that its resistance to gastric acid permits higher serum levels with oral administration.

Amoxicillin is used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections. This medication is a penicillin-type antibiotic. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. This antibiotic treats only bacterial infections. It will not work for viral infections (such as common cold, flu). Using any antibiotic when it is not needed can cause it to not work for future infections. Amoxicillin is also used with other medications to treat stomach/intestinal ulcers caused by the bacteria H. pylori and to prevent the ulcers from returning.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

A fixed-ratio combination of amoxicillin trihydrate and potassium clavulanate.

Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid is a combination penicillin-type antibiotic used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. This antibiotic treats only bacterial infections. It will not work for viral infections (such as common cold, flu). Using any antibiotic when it is not needed can cause it to not work for future infections.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

Semi-synthetic derivative of penicillin that functions as an orally active broad-spectrum antibiotic.

Ampicillin is used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections. It is a penicillin-type antibiotic. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. This antibiotic treats only bacterial infections. It will not work for viral infections (such as common cold, flu). Using any antibiotic when it is not needed can cause it to not work for future infections.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

A third-generation oral cephalosporin antibacterial agent that is used to treat bacterial infections of the respiratory tract and skin.

Cefdinir is used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections. This medication is known as a cephalosporin antibiotic. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. This antibiotic treats only bacterial infections. It will not work for viral infections (such as common cold, flu). Using any antibiotic when it is not needed can cause it to not work for future infections.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

A cephalosporin antibiotic.

Cefuroxime is used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections. This medication is known as a cephalosporin antibiotic. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. This antibiotic treats only bacterial infections. It will not work for viral infections (such as common cold, flu). Using any antibiotic when it is not needed can cause it to not work for future infections.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

A broad-spectrum antimicrobial carboxyfluoroquinoline.

This medication is used to treat eye infections. Ciprofloxacin belongs to a class of drugs called quinolone antibiotics. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. This medication treats only bacterial eye infections. It will not work for other types of eye infections. Unnecessary use or overuse of any antibiotic can lead to its decreased effectiveness.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

A prazosin-related compound that is a selective alpha-1-adrenergic blocker.

Doxazosin is used alone or with other drugs to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. This medication works by relaxing blood vessels so blood can flow more easily. Doxazosin is also used in men to treat the symptoms of an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia-BPH). It does not shrink the prostate, but it works by relaxing the muscles in the prostate and part of the bladder. This helps to relieve symptoms of BPH such as difficulty in beginning the flow of urine, weak stream, and the need to urinate frequently or urgently (including during the middle of the night). Doxazosin belongs to a class of drugs known as alpha blockers.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

A 5-ALPHA-REDUCTASE INHIBITOR that is reported to inhibit both type-1 and type2 isoforms of the enzyme and is used to treat BENIGN PROSTATIC HYPERPLASIA.

This medication is used in men to treat the symptoms of an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia-BPH). It works by reducing the size of the enlarged prostate. This helps to relieve symptoms of BPH such as difficulty in beginning the flow of urine, weak stream, and the need to urinate frequently or urgently (including during the middle of the night). It may also reduce the need for surgery to treat BPH. Dutasteride is not approved for prevention of prostate cancer. It may slightly increase the risk of developing a very serious form of prostate cancer. Talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks. This medication should not be used by women or children.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

The 17-beta-isomer of estradiol, an aromatized C18 steroid with hydroxyl group at 3-beta- and 17-beta-position. Estradiol-17-beta is the most potent form of mammalian estrogenic steroids.

This medication is a female hormone (estrogen). It is used by women to help reduce symptoms of menopause (such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness). These symptoms are caused by the body making less estrogen. If you are using this medication to treat symptoms only in and around the vagina, products applied directly inside the vagina should be considered before medications that are taken by mouth, absorbed through the skin, or injected. This medication may also be used by women who are not able to produce enough estrogen (for example, due to hypogonadism, primary ovarian failure). Certain estrogen products may also be used by women after menopause to prevent bone loss (osteoporosis). However, there are other medications (such as raloxifene, bisphosphonates including alendronate) that are also effective in preventing bone loss and may be safer. These medications should be considered for use before estrogen treatment.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

This medication is used to treat certain bladder problems (overactive bladder, neurogenic detrusor overactivity). Overactive bladder is a problem with how your bladder stores urine. Neurogenic detrusor overactivity is a bladder control condition caused by brain, spinal cord, or nerve problems. Symptoms of these conditions may include frequent urination, strong sudden urges to urinate that are hard to control, or involuntary loss of urine (incontinence). By relaxing the muscles in the bladder, fesoterodine improves your ability to control your urination. It helps to reduce leaking of urine, feelings of needing to urinate right away, and frequent trips to the bathroom. This medication belongs to the class of drugs known as antispasmodics.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

An orally active 3-OXO-5-ALPHA-STEROID 4-DEHYDROGENASE inhibitor. It is used as a surgical alternative for treatment of benign PROSTATIC HYPERPLASIA.

Finasteride is used to shrink an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH) in adult men. It may be used alone or taken in combination with other medications to reduce symptoms of BPH and may also reduce the need for surgery. Finasteride may improve symptoms of BPH and provide benefits such as decreased urge to urinate, better urine flow with less straining, less of a feeling that the bladder is not completely emptied, and decreased nighttime urination. This medication works by decreasing the amount of a natural body hormone (DHT) that causes growth of the prostate. Finasteride is not approved for prevention of prostate cancer. It may slightly increase the risk of developing a very serious form of prostate cancer. Talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks. Women and children should not use this medication.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

Triazole antifungal agent that is used to treat oropharyngeal CANDIDIASIS and cryptococcal MENINGITIS in AIDS.

Fluconazole is used to treat vaginal yeast infections. It works by stopping the growth of common types of vaginal yeast (fungus). This medication belongs to a class of drugs called azole antifungals.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

This medication is used to treat overactive bladder. Overactive bladder is a problem with how your bladder stores urine that causes a sudden urge to urinate. The urge may be hard to control, and overactive bladder symptoms may include frequent urination, strong sudden urges to urinate, or involuntary loss of urine (incontinence). Vibegron works by relaxing a certain bladder muscle (detrusor), which helps the bladder hold more urine and lessens symptoms of overactive bladder.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

This combination medication is used to relieve moderate to severe pain. It contains an opioid pain reliever (hydrocodone) and a non-opioid pain reliever (acetaminophen). Hydrocodone works in the brain to change how your body feels and responds to pain. Acetaminophen can also reduce a fever.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

The L-isomer of Ofloxacin.

This medication is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. Levofloxacin belongs to a class of drugs known as quinolone antibiotics. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. Levofloxacin injection is used if you cannot take the medication by mouth. This antibiotic treats only bacterial infections. It will not work for viral infections (such as common cold, flu). Using any antibiotic when it is not needed can cause it to not work for future infections.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

Methenamine is used to prevent or control returning urinary tract infections caused by certain bacteria. It is not used to treat an active infection. Antibiotics must be used first to treat and cure the infection. Methenamine is a drug that stops the growth of bacteria in urine. This medication also contains an ingredient that helps to make the urine acidic. When the urine is acidic, methenamine turns into formaldehyde to kill the bacteria. This drug is effective only against bacterial infections in the urinary tract. It will not work for other types of bacterial infections (such as in the blood) or for viral infections (such as the common cold or flu). Unnecessary use or misuse of any antibacterial drug can lead to its decreased effectiveness.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

This medication is used to treat certain bladder problems (overactive bladder, neurogenic detrusor overactivity). Overactive bladder is a problem with how your bladder stores urine. Neurogenic detrusor overactivity is a bladder control condition caused by brain, spinal cord, or nerve problems. Symptoms of these conditions may include frequent urination, strong sudden urges to urinate that are hard to control, or involuntary loss of urine (incontinence). Mirabegron works by relaxing a certain bladder muscle (detrusor), which helps the bladder hold more urine and lessens symptoms of overactive bladder and neurogenic detrusor overactivity.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

This medication is an antibiotic used to treat bladder infections (acute cystitis). It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. This antibiotic treats only bacterial infections. It will not work for viral infections (such as common cold, flu). Using any antibiotic when it is not needed can cause it to not work for future infections. This medication should not be used in infants younger than 1 month old (see also Precautions section). This drug should not be used to treat infections outside the bladder (including kidney infections such as pyelonephritis or perinephric abscesses).

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

This is a long-acting form of oxybutynin that is used to treat overactive bladder and urinary conditions. It relaxes the muscles in the bladder to help decrease problems of urgency and frequent urination. Oxybutynin belongs to a class of drugs known as antispasmodics. This medication is also used to treat children 6 years of age and older who have an overactive bladder due to certain nerve disorders (such as spina bifida).

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

This is a long-acting form of oxybutynin that is used to treat overactive bladder and urinary conditions. It relaxes the muscles in the bladder to help decrease problems of urgency and frequent urination. Oxybutynin belongs to a class of drugs known as antispasmodics. This medication is also used to treat children 6 years of age and older who have an overactive bladder due to certain nerve disorders (such as spina bifida).

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

A powder that dissolves in water, which is administered orally, and is used as a diuretic, expectorant, systemic alkalizer, and electrolyte replenisher.

This medication is used to make the urine less acidic. This effect helps the kidneys get rid of uric acid, thereby helping to prevent gout and kidney stones. This medication can also prevent and treat certain metabolic problems (acidosis) caused by kidney disease. Citric acid and citrate salts (which contain potassium and sodium) belong to a class of drugs known as urinary alkalinizers. If you have a condition that requires you to limit your intake of potassium and sodium, your doctor may direct you to take a product that is lower in potassium and sodium.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

Sertraline is used to treat depression, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, social anxiety disorder (social phobia), and a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (premenstrual dysphoric disorder). This medication may improve your mood, sleep, appetite, and energy level and may help restore your interest in daily living. It may decrease fear, anxiety, unwanted thoughts, and the number of panic attacks. It may also reduce the urge to perform repeated tasks (compulsions such as hand-washing, counting, and checking) that interfere with daily living. Sertraline is known as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It works by helping to restore the balance of a certain natural substance (serotonin) in the brain.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

A PHOSPHODIESTERASE TYPE-5 INHIBITOR; VASODILATOR AGENT and UROLOGICAL AGENT that is used in the treatment of ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION and PRIMARY PULMONARY HYPERTENSION.

Sildenafil is used to treat high blood pressure in the lungs (pulmonary hypertension). It works by relaxing and widening the blood vessels in your lungs which allows the blood to flow more easily. Decreasing high blood pressure in the lungs allows your heart and lungs to work better and improves your ability to exercise. This medication is not recommended for use in children. Discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with the doctor.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

Silodosin is used by men to treat the symptoms of an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia-BPH). It does not shrink the prostate, but it works by relaxing the muscles in the prostate and the bladder. This helps to relieve symptoms of BPH such as difficulty in beginning the flow of urine, weak stream, and the need to urinate often or urgently (including during the middle of the night). Silodosin belongs to a class of drugs known as alpha blockers. Do not use this medication to treat high blood pressure.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

A quinuclidine and tetrahydroisoquinoline derivative and selective M3 MUSCARINIC ANTAGONIST. It is used as a UROLOGIC AGENT in the treatment of URINARY INCONTINENCE.

Solifenacin is used to treat an overactive bladder. By relaxing the muscles in the bladder, solifenacin improves your ability to control your urination. It helps to reduce leaking of urine, feelings of needing to urinate right away, and frequent trips to the bathroom. This medication belongs to the class of drugs known as antispasmodics.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

A drug combination with broad-spectrum antibacterial activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative organisms. It is effective in the treatment of many infections, including PNEUMOCYSTIS PNEUMONIA in AIDS.

This medication is a combination of two antibiotics: sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim. It is used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections (such as middle ear, urine, respiratory, and intestinal infections). It is also used to prevent and treat a certain type of pneumonia (pneumocystis-type). This medication should not be used by children less than 2 months of age due to the risk of serious side effects. This medication treats only certain types of infections. It will not work for viral infections (such as flu). Unnecessary use or misuse of any antibiotic can lead to its decreased effectiveness.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

A carboline derivative and PHOSPHODIESTERASE 5 INHIBITOR that is used primarily to treat ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION; BENIGN PROSTATIC HYPERPLASIA and PRIMARY PULMONARY HYPERTENSION.

Tadalafil is used to treat high blood pressure in the lungs (pulmonary hypertension). It works by relaxing and widening the blood vessels in your lungs which allows the blood to flow more easily. Decreasing high blood pressure in the lungs allows your heart and lungs to work better and improves your ability to exercise.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

Tamsulosin is used by men to treat the symptoms of an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia-BPH). It does not shrink the prostate, but it works by relaxing the muscles in the prostate and the bladder. This helps to relieve symptoms of BPH such as difficulty in beginning the flow of urine, weak stream, and the need to urinate often or urgently (including during the middle of the night). Tamsulosin belongs to a class of drugs known as alpha blockers. Do not use this medication to treat high blood pressure.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

A potent androgenic steroid and major product secreted by the LEYDIG CELLS of the TESTIS. Its production is stimulated by LUTEINIZING HORMONE from the PITUITARY GLAND. In turn, testosterone exerts feedback control of the pituitary LH and FSH secretion. Depending on the tissues, testosterone can be further converted to DIHYDROTESTOSTERONE or ESTRADIOL.

This medicated patch contains testosterone. It is used for hormone replacement in men who are not able to produce enough testosterone (for example, due to hypogonadism). This medication is absorbed through the skin, enters your bloodstream, and helps your body reach normal testosterone levels. Testosterone helps the body to develop and maintain the male sexual characteristics (masculinity), such as a deep voice and body hair. It also helps to maintain muscle and prevent bone loss, and is necessary for natural sexual ability/desire. This drug should not be used by women.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

This medication is used in men who do not make enough of a natural substance called testosterone. In males, testosterone is responsible for many normal functions, including growth and development of the genitals, muscles, and bones. It also helps cause normal sexual development (puberty) in boys. Testosterone belongs to a class of drugs known as androgens. It works by affecting many body systems so that the body can develop and function normally. Testosterone may also be used in certain adolescent boys to cause puberty in those with delayed puberty. It may also be used to treat certain types of breast cancer in women.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

A narcotic analgesic proposed for severe pain. It may be habituating.

See also Warning section. This medication is used to help relieve moderate to moderately severe pain. Tramadol belongs to a class of drugs known as opioid analgesics. It works in the brain to change how your body feels and responds to pain.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

A prodrug of acyclovir that is used in the treatment of HERPES ZOSTER and HERPES SIMPLEX VIRUS INFECTION of the skin and mucous membranes, including GENITAL HERPES.

Valacyclovir is used to treat infections caused by certain types of viruses. In children, it is used to treat cold sores around the mouth (caused by herpes simplex) and chickenpox (caused by varicella zoster). In adults, it is used to treat shingles (caused by herpes zoster) and cold sores around the mouth. Valacyclovir is also used to treat outbreaks of genital herpes. In people with frequent outbreaks, this medication is used to reduce the number of future episodes. Valacyclovir is an antiviral drug. It stops the growth of certain viruses. However, it is not a cure for these infections. The viruses that cause these infections continue to live in the body even between outbreaks. Valacyclovir decreases the severity and length of these outbreaks. It helps the sores heal faster, keeps new sores from forming, and decreases pain/itching. This medication may also help reduce how long pain remains after the sores heal.