I have heard that Valtrex (valacyclovir) is good for getting rid of cold sores. Is there a better alternative?

Unfortunately, non of the antiviral agents available to fight the herpes simplex virus eradicates the virus. They make outbreaks shorter and less uncomfortable. Try to start a log and record what may trigger you to get an outbreak, then start by avoiding, e.g., tomatoes, strawberries, a.s.o.

Any of antivirals. for herpetic infections is good (which includes Valtrex).