Valtrex vs Lexapro: side-by-side comparison
Valtrex (Antiviral Medications) and Lexapro (Anti-Depressants) belong to different therapeutic classes and are rarely interchangeable. This page compares the medications' purposes, mechanisms and the situations where each is used.
| Property | Valtrex | Lexapro |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Valacyclovir | Escitalopram |
| Manufacturer | GlaxoSmithKline | Forest/Allergan |
| Class | Antiviral Medications | Anti-Depressants |
| Strengths | 500mg, 1000mg | 5mg, 10mg, 20mg |
| Forms | tablet | tablet |
What's the same
Valtrex and Lexapro are used in very different patients, and the points in common are limited. The main shared element is that both meet regulatory standards for efficacy and safety and benefit from pharmacist oversight.
Key differences
Valtrex belongs to Antiviral Medications while Lexapro belongs to Anti-Depressants. Indications, mechanisms and target populations differ. The comparison is most useful when a clinician has mentioned both medications and the patient wants to understand where each fits.
Mechanism and action
Valtrex: Valacyclovir is rapidly and almost completely converted to acyclovir during first-pass intestinal and hepatic metabolism by valacyclovir hydrolase. Lexapro: Lexapro acts by selectively inhibiting the serotonin reuptake transporter (SERT) at the synapse, increasing serotonin availability for postsynaptic receptors.
When Valtrex is preferred
Valtrex is approved in adults for the treatment of herpes simplex virus infections, including genital herpes (initial episodes, recurrent episodes and suppressive therapy), herpes labialis (single-day high-dose regimen), reduction of transmission in heterosexual immunocompetent a…
When Lexapro is preferred
Lexapro is approved for major depressive disorder and generalised anxiety disorder in adults and adolescents 12 years and older (depression) and adults (generalised anxiety).
Frequently asked questions
Is Valtrex or Lexapro better? ▾
Valtrex and Lexapro are not interchangeable — they treat different conditions. Asking which is "better" is meaningful only when a clinician has weighed both for the same specific clinical scenario.
Can I switch from Valtrex to Lexapro? ▾
Switching between Valtrex and Lexapro is rarely an appropriate decision since they belong to different classes and treat different conditions. The real question is usually whether the diagnosis calls for one medication or the other — which the prescriber resolves.
Do Valtrex and Lexapro have the same side effects? ▾
No — they belong to different classes and have distinct side-effect profiles. Each medication has its own prescribing information.
More Valtrex comparisons
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.