Antiviral Tablets To Stop The Herpes Virus Multiplying
Antiviral medicines taken by mouth, such as valaciclovir or acyclovir, are the most effective in controlling symptoms, although they cant cure genital herpes. They stop the virus from multiplying in body cells where the virus is present. The medicine only works while you are taking it. The infection can come back when you stop taking it.
Antiviral tablets are used in the following two ways:
- To treat outbreaks as they happen : The aim is to shorten the time each outbreak lasts and to relieve symptoms. This works best when taken as soon as you get symptoms and before the blisters appear.
- To prevent or reduce recurrences : If you get frequent or severe recurrent outbreaks, your doctor may recommend you take antiviral tablets every day to help prevent recurrences. Suppressive therapy is taken continuously, every day, for months or years. Suppressive antiviral therapy may help reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to sexual partners.
Antiviral creams bought over the counter from the pharmacy are not recommended as a treatment for a first episode or recurrent genital herpes as they are of little benefit. Antiviral tablets are the preferred treatment.
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When Is Treatment Necessary
Herpes can cause blisters to form on or around the mouth or genitals. These blisters then break, forming open, painful sores that may take at least 1 week to heal.
The symptoms may clear up on their own, and they may reappear later, in what some people call outbreaks or flare ups.
Once the virus enters the body, it never completely goes away. Some triggers that can cause herpes symptoms to reappear include:
- friction in the genital area
- a weakened immune system
Doctors may prescribe one of the following antiviral medications to help manage herpes symptoms. A person can also take some steps at home to ease the symptoms, and we describe these later in the article.
Please note, the writer has not tested these products. All information is research-based.
When Should I See My Doctor
You may need to see a doctor if you have more severe symptoms or a weakened immune system if, for example, you have HIV or you are having cancer treatment.
Its also a good idea to see your doctor if:
- there are signs the cold sore is infected, such as redness around the sore, pus and a fever
- you arent sure you have a cold sore
- the cold sore isnt healing, it’s spreading or you have more than one cold sore
- your cold sore has spread to near your eyes
- you get cold sores often
Antibiotics may be needed if the cold sore gets infected.
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Understanding Herpes With H Hunter Handsfield Md
Herpes expert H. Hunter Handsfield, MD, explains the basics about genital herpes, including the difference between genital HSV-1 and HSV-2 infection, testing options and the importance of knowing virus type, and the three-prong strategy for prevention. See more herpes videos at sexualhealthTV.com.
Have a question about herpes youd like Dr. Handsfield or our other experts to answer? Visit our Ask the Experts page to learn how.
How Do You Get Herpes Causes And Risk Factors
Herpes infections are caused by herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2. These contagious viruses are spread through skin-to-skin contact with a person who is having a herpes outbreak.
You get herpes by touching a herpes sore or the skin, lips, genital fluids, or saliva of a person with an oral or genital herpes infection. Herpes can be spread even when there are no visible blisters or sores.
This article discusses how herpes is spread. It also explains who is at high risk for herpes and how you can protect yourself.
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How To Use Over The Counter Genital Herpes Treatment
While over-the-counter medications can help suppress the herpes virus, they dont cure the disease. They only control outbreaks by making the symptoms less severe and decreasing the pain. Acyclovir is one of the oldest antiviral medications for herpes and has been available for over 30 years, though its not recommended as a first course of treatment for genital herpes. A newer drug, valacyclovir, is available on the market and delivers the same antiviral in a more efficient way.
Both acyclovir and famciclovir contain the active ingredient penciclovir, which prevents the HSV from replicating. Both medications reduce the duration and severity of outbreaks, and famciclovir is absorbed better by the body and can be used less frequently than acyclovir. Typically, antiviral medications are prescribed for people with the first outbreak of genital herpes, but they can be used to prevent recurrent outbreaks as well.
Topical treatments for genital herpes can help reduce the discomfort caused by an outbreak. Topical applications of acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or aspirin may relieve the pain. Keeping the outbreak dry is another way to reduce the severity of the symptoms. Moisture triggers irritation and inflammation. A hairdryer can be used to dry the area. It is also important to wear cotton underwear, which is more absorbent and gentle. You should consider supplements for herpes for yourself.
How To Choose The Most Popular Topical Creams For Herpes Zoster
The three most crucial criteria to consider are price, quality, and popularity.Price is an obvious factor to consider, as you want to ensure it is acceptable for your needs.Quality should also be examined because buying a low-quality goods will not help you achieve your main aim of obtaining the best product.Finally, while not as obvious as price or quality, popularity can be just as significant as both when it comes to attracting new customers.
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How To Get Rid Of Genital Herpes Outbreaks Quickly & Safely
There is no cure for genital herpes, but there are many over-the-counter treatment optionsas well as supplements, herbs, topical treatments, and even dietary changesthat may help clear up outbreaks faster.
In this article, Ill talk about the early warning signs of genital herpes, outline some medicines and at-home treatments for outbreaks, and information on howto heal herpes sores faster.
Ill help you understand what is safe and backed by reliable evidence.
And Ill tell you when to talk to your doctor.
Details On Valtrex Indications For Use
Your healthcare provider may write you out a prescription for Valtrex to treat herpes manifestations. The drug is highly efficacious in the therapy of:
- Herpes simplex virus
- Severe Epstein-Barr virus symptoms
- Viral infections in people with the suppressed immune system due to chemotherapy or diseases.
Valtrex is a prodrug. This means that after getting to the human body, it is converted into acyclovir, and only then, the medication works to treat cold sores and other manifestations of herpes. The preparation acts by inhibiting the viral DNA replication. Besides, the metabolites of the active substance incorporate into the DNA of the virus, thus making it less active.
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Using Hydrocortisone Cream For Skin Rashes
Hydrocortisone cream is a topical steroid used to treat mild inflammatory skin conditions, commonly referred to as dermatitis.
Hydrocortisone cream is available over the counter in different strengths, such as 0.5% and 1.0%. It is also available by prescription, at a strength of 2.5%.
Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid, similar to a hormone produced naturally in your adrenal glands. It works by easing the swelling, itching, and redness caused by dermatitis.
Hydrocortisone is also an ingredient used in a number of antibacterial or antifungal preparations, such as in athlete’s foot creams and diaper ointments.
This article explains the conditions that hydrocortisone cream can treat, those it cannot, how to use the cream, and the possible side effects.
Anupong Thongchan / EyeEm / Getty Images
Genital Herpes Treatment Over The Counter At Cvs
Consider buying the CVS brand if youre looking for a genital herpes treatment over the cabinet. Among these treatments are Abreva and Reovit. These are both topical creams with penciclovir as the active ingredient. Both medications work by inhibiting the replication of the herpes virus.
Famciclovir is absorbed well by the body and remains there for longer, allowing it to work more effectively. Antivirals are recommended for genital herpes treatment and can be purchased over the counter or by prescription. Antivirals are used for first-time outbreaks and can be used for recurrent outbreaks as well. Some over-the-counter creams are available with an Abreva-like formula, and your health insurance even covers some.
If youre looking for a genital herpes treatment over the shelf, youll have a wide selection at CVS. However, its a good idea to talk to your OB/GYN before taking any medications. Some of these products have a side effect known as a rash, accompanied by an unpleasant odor. However, many people find that taking these medications helps them stop the herpes outbreaks before they become serious.
FemiClear Hsv2 genital herpes treatment for women can be used to reduce the burning, itching, and pain caused by a herpes outbreak. It kills 99.9% of the virus and can be used during an outbreak. If youre looking for a genital herpes treatment over the counter at CVS, check out FemiClear.
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Should I Tell My Sexual Partner
Yes, you need to let your sexual partners know so they get tested. If you do not feel comfortable contacting them yourself, your sexual health clinic can contact them for you. They can send them a contact slip suggesting that they might have been exposed to a sexually transmitted infection and recommending that they go for a check-up. Your name will not be on the slip, although sometimes it states which infection they might have picked up.
How To Treat A Cold Sore With Home Remedies
While prescription and OTC cold sore medication can promote healing and relieve pain, home remedies may also improve your symptoms and possibly reduce the frequency of outbreaks.
These remedies wont fight the virus, but they can help you feel better until a cold sore heals.
To self-treat a cold sore:
- Opt for cool foods that you apply to your mouth area. For example, suck on ice chips or a popsicle to reduce pain in or around the lips.
- Apply a cold or warm compress to painful areas. This can help ease inflammation.
- Avoid trigger foods that may irritate a cold sore. These can include hot beverages, citrus fruits, spicy food, and salty foods.
- Turn to your medicine cabinet. Apply a skin protectant, such as petroleum jelly, to a cold sore and the skin around the sore.
- Wear lip balm with SPF 30 or higher. This protects your lips until a cold sore heals. Applying balm year-round can also help stop recurrent cold sores.
- Tend to your dental health. Use an antiseptic mouthwash when brushing your teeth to relieve pain.
- Drink water. Keep your body hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
A few alternative therapies might also promote healing and relieve cold sore symptoms, although more research is needed to confirm the effectiveness of these remedies.
For example, applying synthetic beeswax to a cold sore might shorten the duration of an outbreak and get rid of the blister sooner.
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A Final Word On Cold Sore Treatments And Remedies
There isnt a cure for the virus that causes a cold sore, so theres always the risk of an outbreak. But while you might be unable to completely prevent a cold sore, antiviral medication and home remedies can make living with cold sores much easier.
Learn how to recognize early signs of a cold sore, and see your doctor if you have frequent outbreaks. The sooner you get an antiviral into your system, the shorter the duration of an outbreak.
Additional reporting by Lindsey Konkel.
How Can I Prevent Transmitting Herpes
Although latex condoms can reduce the risk of transmitting most STIs by 98 percent, condoms dont prevent herpes transmission. This is because not all herpes sores occur in areas that are covered by a condom.
If youre experiencing an active outbreak, you can
- avoiding sexual activity until symptoms go away
- washing your hands thoroughly and applying medication with cotton swabs to reduce contact with sores
Taking a daily antiviral herpes medication can also help prevent transmission, shorten outbreaks, and manage symptoms.
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What Are The Symptoms Of Herpes Simplex
Many people with the infection never experience any herpes symptoms. If you do notice symptoms, youll experience them differently depending on whether youre having your first herpes outbreak or a repeat outbreak. Recurring symptoms are usually milder than the first outbreak. Symptoms dont last as long with later outbreaks. Some people may only have one or two outbreaks during their lifetime. Others may have as many as four or five outbreaks a year.
People who do have herpes symptoms may experience:
- Cold sores around their lips, mouth or tongue. They may look crusty or like fluid-filled blisters.
- Tingling, itching or burning.
- Pain while urinating.
What Are The Causes Of Genital Herpes
Genital herpes is spread by skin-to-skin contact with someone who has the HSV virus, usually during genital or oral sex. It can also be spread through kissing, foreplay or non-penetrative sex.
- HSV1 commonly causes cold sores on the lips or face.
- HSV2 causes most genital herpes.
The HSV virus is most easily spread when there are blisters or sores, but it can still be passed even if a person has no current blisters or sores or other symptoms.
You cannot get genital herpes from things like hugging, swimming pools or toilet seats.
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Hclear For Him For Genital Herpes Symptoms Multi Symptom
Price: $59.99
HClear for Him for Genital Herpes Symptoms is an ointment that the company claims may reduce symptoms of genital herpes outbreaks in biological males. Such symptoms may include itching, tingling, and burning.
HClear contains the same ingredients as FemiClear for Genital Herpes Symptoms. The ointment has a runny texture, so people can store it in a refrigerator before applying it to their skin.
The company recommends that people use HClear as soon as they experience the tingling sensation that signals a herpes outbreak. A person should apply the product at least four times a day, and as often as necessary thereafter.
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What Triggers Outbreaks
Certain triggers can cause the herpes virus to reactivate. This is known as a recurrence and can happen even if you have a healthy immune system.
There are several known triggers that can stimulate recurrence, including:
- Physical stress, such as an infection, an illness, or an injury
- Persistent emotional stress or anxiety for greater than one week
- Exposure to ultraviolet light , excessive heat, or cold
- Hormonal changes, such as during menstruation
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Is There An Over
Yes, but OTC medications are generally less effective in treating herpes than prescription ones. Abreva is an over-the-counter topical drug that many people use to treat cold sores from HSV-1, but not HSV-2. NSAIDs like ibuprofen and Tylenol are OTC drugs that reduce pain and discomfort, but they do not treat herpes directly.
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What Are The Side Effects Of Valtrex
This is not a complete list of side effects, and others may occur. A medical professional can advise you on side effects. If you experience other effects, contact your pharmacist or a medical professional. You may report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 800-FDA-1088.
Valtrex can cause several side effects, most of which are not dangerous. However, some serious side effects can occur.
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Management Of Sex Partners
The sex partners of persons who have symptomatic genital herpes can benefit from evaluation and counseling. Symptomatic sex partners should be evaluated and treated in the same manner as patients who have symptomatic genital herpes. Asymptomatic sex partners of patients who have symptomatic genital herpes should be asked about a history of genital symptoms and offered type-specific serologic testing for HSV-2. For partners without genital herpes, no data are available on which to base a recommendation for PEP or PrEP with antiviral medications or that they would prevent acquisition, and this should not be offered to patients as a prevention strategy.
Types Of Antiviral Drugs
There are three oral antivirals recommended for the treatment of oral or genital herpes:
| Famvir, 250 mg | Twice daily |
Preventing genital herpes recurrence is important as it reduces the risk of HIV. According to the CDC, having an active genital herpes infection increases the risk of HIV by 200% to 300%.
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Counselling For Genital Herpes
If you have just found out that you have genital herpes, it is likely you will have a lot of questions. A diagnosis of genital herpes often comes as a shock.
For many people who have genital herpes, the physical symptoms are outweighed by the emotional stress relating to the diagnosis. There are many misconceptions about genital herpes, including the belief that it is associated with promiscuity.
Seeing a counsellor may be a good idea to discuss any concerns you may have. Counselling offers a way of dealing with your concerns.For more information see the NZ Herpes Foundation or talk with one of their trained counsellors on 0508 11 12 13 free call 0508 11 12 13 or 09 433 6526 .
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