What Meds Are Used For Herpes

What Are Antiviral Medications For Herpes

There are three antiviral medications that are FDA-approved for the treatment of genital herpes:

• Acyclovir: The oldest antiviral medication for herpes is acyclovir. It has been available since 1982 in a topical form and sold since 1985 in pill form. Acyclovir has been shown to be safe in persons who have used it continuously for as long as 10 years.
• Valacyclovir: A newer drug, valacyclovir, actually uses acyclovir as its active ingredient. This medication delivers acyclovir more efficiently so that the body absorbs much of the drug, which has the advantage of taking the medication fewer times during the day.
• Famciclovir: Famciclovir uses penciclovir as its active ingredient to stop HSV from replicating. Like valacyclovir, it is well absorbed, persists for a longer time in the body, and can be taken less frequently than acyclovir.

Antiviral medication is commonly prescribed for patients having a first episode of genital herpes, but they can be used for recurrent episodes as well. There are two kinds of treatment regimens: episodic therapy and suppressive therapy.

What Is Acyclovir And How Does It Work

Acyclovir is approved by the Food and Drug Administration as a prescription drug that is commonly used as a topical, injectable, and oral treatment for genital herpes and cold sores. Herpes refers to a group of viruses that cause a variety of herpes infections including genital herpes, shingles, chicken pox , cold sores, and encephalitis . Herpes viral infections are very common. Genital herpes refers to a sexually transmitted disease that any sexually active person can contract and transmit.

Shingles and chicken pox are common skin conditions. Shingles and chicken pox are skin infections which are both caused by the herpes virus. They are not caused by the same virus that causes cold sores or genital herpes.

Many people who suffer from shingles or chicken pox infection will experience symptoms such as a rash, often with pain, which is treatable with this drug.

Genital herpes is an STD caused by two types of viruses: herpes simplex type 1 and herpes simplex type 2. Most people with genital herpes do not know they have it. Still, symptoms often appear days to weeks after exposure. Symptoms of genital herpes generally include:

• Flu-like symptoms such as fever, body aches, or swollen glands
• Blisters, sores, or rash in the genital area with or without pain, itching, tingling
• Blisters that pop open, causing painful sores.

Acyclovir may also help treat pain associated with an outbreak of genital herpes after the sores heal.

Acyclovir is the generic equivalent of Zovirax.

Chlamydial Infection Among Neonates

Prenatal screening and treatment of pregnant women is the best method for preventing chlamydial infection among neonates. C. trachomatis infection of neonates results from perinatal exposure to the mothers infected cervix. Initial C. trachomatis neonatal infection involves the mucous membranes of the eye, oropharynx, urogenital tract, and rectum, although infection might be asymptomatic in these locations. Instead, C. trachomatis infection among neonates is most frequently recognized by conjunctivitis that develops 512 days after birth. C. trachomatis also can cause a subacute, afebrile pneumonia with onset at ages 13 months. Although C. trachomatis has been the most frequent identifiable infectious cause of ophthalmia neonatorum, neonatal chlamydial infections, including ophthalmia and pneumonia, have occurred less frequently since institution of widespread prenatal screening and treatment of pregnant women. Neonates born to mothers at high risk for chlamydial infection, with untreated chlamydia, or with no or unconfirmed prenatal care, are at high risk for infection. However, presumptive treatment of the neonate is not indicated because the efficacy of such treatment is unknown. Infants should be monitored to ensure prompt and age-appropriate treatment if symptoms develop. Processes should be in place to ensure communication between physicians and others caring for the mother and the newborn to ensure thorough monitoring of the newborn after birth.

Recommended Reading: Best Way To Test For Genital Herpes

What Are The Best Natural Remedies For Herpes

When experiencing a herpes outbreak, one of the most important things someone can do is keep the area clean, cool, and dry, since heat and dampness can irritate the sores. Maintaining a healthy immune system can go a long way too, according to Dr. Hayag. âA strong, healthy immune system can keep herpes under control, prevent outbreaks, and reduce the duration of symptoms,â she says. âSupplements like zinc, vitamin C, and echinacea are vital to increasing your immune function and easy to incorporate into your daily routine.â And when it comes to natural remedies, there are several that can provide much-needed relief.

Also Check: Can You Test For Herpes At Home

Does Cold Sore Cream Work On Genital Herpes

creamcold soresdoescold soresgenital herpesdoesdoes

. Also know, can you use Zovirax on genital herpes?

BRAND NAME: Zovirax. USES: This medication is used to treat cold sores/fever blisters . This medication may also be used to treat genital herpes. Other medications taken by mouth may be more effective for genital herpes.

Additionally, what can I put on genital herpes sores? To ease symptoms: Take acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or aspirin to relieve pain. Apply cool compresses to sores several times a day to relieve pain and itching. Women with sores on the vaginal lips can try urinating in a tub of water to avoid pain.

Also know, can I use cold sore cream for genital herpes?

Acyclovir topical cream is used to treat cold sores on the lips and face. Acyclovir topical ointment is used to treat genital herpes lesions. There is no cure for herpes and acyclovir will not prevent you from developing symptoms in the future.

Can abreva be used for genital herpes?

CAN ABREVA BE USED TO TREAT GENITAL HERPES, CANKER SORES OR SHINGLES? Abreva cream is indicated only for the treatment of cold sores caused by Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1.

Read Also: Can Herpes Be Treated With Antibiotics

Don’t Miss: Do Herpes Go Away Without Treatment

Genital Herpes Guide: Treatment And Follow

• Etiology and epidemiology

Treatment and follow-up guidance for the genital herpes.

Note: This guide provides minimal information about neonatal herpes. For more information, refer to the Canadian Paediatric Society Position Statement about the prevention and management of neonatal herpes simplex virus infections.

What Are Genital Herpes Symptoms

Outbreaks got you feeling like you won the STI lottery? Cheer up, herpes is as common in dating as the awkward first kiss. Unfortunately, many people dont know they have it. 1 in 8 US adults has HSV-2, the virus that primarily causes genital herpes . Individuals with HSV-2 will experience genital outbreaks for the rest of their lives, although many individuals mistake them simply as “genital pimples” or “fever blisters” – but painful genital ulcers, call ’em what you want, are usually a sign you have genital herpes.

• Swollen or tender lymphs in the legs & groin

• Headache & pain in your joints

• Flu-like symptoms

Also Check: How To Test For Herpes Without Sores

Topical Otc Treatments For Genital Herpes

Several over-the-counter topical options are available for genital herpes treatment, but evidence suggests they arent all effective.

Start with a few simple DIY topical compresses. Research shows that topical therapy can effectively alleviate symptoms of genital herpes outbreaks and even contribute to the prevention of outbreaks when used promptly.

Here are a few tried-and-true natural compress ideas to get you started:

• -Dry, warm compress using warmed rice in a sock
• -Cold compress using an ice pack or soft washcloth filled with ice
• -Baking soda paste
• -Crushed garlic cloves mixed with olive oil
• -Topical apple cider vinegar using one-part ACV and three-parts warm water

How Do Hsv Antivirals Work

Herpes simplex virus antivirals are used to treat herpes simplex virus 1 and 2 . Acyclovir is the antiviral most commonly used to treat HSV infections. It works by inhibiting DNAsynthesis and therefore prevents replication of the virus. HSV-1 is transmitted by oral-to-oral contact, mainly causes oral herpes known as cold sores, and may also cause genital herpes. HSV-2 is a sexually transmitted disease that causes genital herpes. Herpes infections are highly contagious oral and genital herpes is usually asymptomatic, and if symptomatic, painful blisters or ulcers appear at the site of infection. HSV-2 infection increases the risk of acquiring and transmitting human immunodeficiency virus infection.

Acyclovir is converted into acyclovir monophosphate by viral thymidine kinase enzyme, which is then converted into acyclovir triphosphate by the hostcell kinases. The formed ACV-TP competitively inhibits and inactivates HSV DNA polymerase and prevents viral DNA synthesis and replication of the virus.

You May Like: How To Handle Herpes Outbreak

You May Like: Can You Have Herpes And Never Have An Outbreak

Types Of Antiviral Drugs

There are three oral antivirals recommended for the treatment of oral or genital herpes:

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%.

Side Effects And Follow

Side effects with these herpes drugs are considered mild, and health experts believe these drugs are safe in the long term. Acyclovir is the oldest of the three, and its safety has been documented in people taking suppressive therapy for several years.

People taking suppressive therapy should see their doctor at least once a year to decide if they should continue. You may find taking the pills every day to be inconvenient, the drugs may not work for you, or you may naturally have fewer outbreaks as time goes on. Your doctor can help you make treatment choices to suit your needs.

You May Like: Why Isn’t My Herpes Outbreak Going Away

How Do Other Antivirals Work

Antivirals are medications used in the treatment and prevention of various types of viral infections. Other antivirals are medications that are not categorized into any specific classes of antivirals. Most of the other antivirals block viral replication by interfering with DNA polymerase, an enzymevital for DNA synthesis and viral replication.

Some of the other antivirals are active drugs that directly take effect, while some are prodrugs, which release the active form of the drug after being metabolized. Other antivirals include the following:

• Acyclovir: Acyclovir is an active drug effective against herpes simplex virus 1 and 2 that cause genital and oral herpes, and varicella-zoster virus which causes chickenpox and shingles. Acyclovir gets incorporated into the viral DNA, inhibits DNA polymerase, and terminates the DNA chain to prevent viral replication.
• Brincidofovir: Brincidofovir is a prodrug approved for treating human smallpox, a disease caused by the variola virus. Although smallpox has been eradicated with vaccination, concerns that the variola virus can be used as a bioweapon remain.
• Brincidofovir penetrates cells and releases cidofovir which is metabolized to produce cidofovir diphosphate, the active drug that selectively inhibits orthopoxvirus DNA polymerase-mediated viral DNA synthesis and reduces the rate of viral DNA synthesis.

• Herpes zoster infection , which is caused by reactivation of VZV
• Herpetic keratitis – Orphan

Warm And Cool Compresses

A warm compress is great for inflammation, swelling, and pain. As soon as you feel a tingling sensation of a sore beginning to form, apply a warm compress. A warm compress can be made at home by stuffing a clean sock with rice and warming it for less than 60 seconds. A cold compress can also be used to reduce swelling and help with inflammation. These compresses can also be made at home by placing an ice pack in a clean washcloth. These compresses can be used as many times as needed.

Also Check: Getting Rid Of Herpes Scar

Herpes Medication: Treatment And Drug Information

Herpes is a common, lifelong viral infection that affects nearly half of American adults under the age of 50.

Most infected individuals do not develop herpes symptoms at all, but for some people, herpes infections can cause painful sores, blisters, or lesions, often on the mouth or genitals.

People who carry the herpes virus can spread it to others through close, direct, and intimate contact.

In this article, Ill review the medications that doctors use to treat both oral and genital herpes.

These include the oral antiviral medications acyclovir , valacyclovir , and famciclovir .

Ill discuss how long it typically takes for these treatments to work, as well as the various dosages available with these treatments.

Ill examine the different kinds of herpes strains and look at the major side effects of herpes medications.

Finally, Ill discuss when to see a doctor if you think you may be experiencing a herpes breakout. .

Are Antiviral Medications Safe

Antiviral medications are considered to be very safe. They are nearly always well tolerated because the active ingredients only have an effect in cells that have been infected by the virus.

People who have kidney failure may need to take a lower dose because the medication is removed from the body through the kidneys.

Recommended Reading: Can Herpes Heal Without Medicine

When To Get Tested

Consult a doctor about any of the following symptoms:

• tingling or itching around the genitals
• pain when peeing
• unusual vaginal discharge

The World Health Organization describes the risk of the herpes virus passing to a newborn during childbirth. Although this is rare, people who are pregnant and have herpes should let their doctors know.

Using a condom or another barrier method of protection during sex reduces the risk of the virus transmitting. It is also a good idea to avoid sharing sex toys with someone who has herpes.

Several online companies offer STI testing kits, including:

• EverlyWell: This company sells tests for chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes, and HIV.
• LetsGetChecked: This company sells tests for several common STIs, and it provides prescriptions at no extra cost if a test result is positive.
• PriortitySTD: This company returns results within 3 days.

Anyone with a positive test result should contact a healthcare professional.

Treatment For Oral Herpes

The antiviral medications available in pill form have been specifically developed for the treatment of genital herpes. However, it is not uncommon for healthcare providers to prescribe the antiviral drugs to those who have frequent or severe outbreaks of oral herpes.

A recent study found valacyclovir to be effective for treating oral herpes in a one-day treatment of 2 grams taken at the first sign of a cold sore, and then again about 12 hours later.

There are two topical antiviral medications prescribed for the treatment of oral HSV symptoms: acyclovir ointment and penciclovir cream. Both work to speed up the healing process and reduce the viral activity. These topical drugs are put directly on the lesions themselves, but can also be used at the onset of prodrome.

Other topical treatments for oral herpes are available over-the-counter , but are not antiviral compounds like acyclovir and penciclovir. Some also contain ingredients that numb the area and induce temporary relief from the discomfort of an outbreak. Unfortunately, some OTC treatments may actually delay the healing time of symptoms because they can further irritate the area with repeated applications. There is only one OTC FDA-approved cream, called Abreva®, which has been clinically proven to help speed the healing process.

Also Check: Are There Dating Sites For Herpes

Avoid The Following While You Are Using Acyclovir Buccal Delayed

• Do not chew gum, touch, or press the buccal tablet after it has been applied.
• Do not wear upper dentures.
• Do not brush your teeth until it dissolves. If your teeth need to be cleaned while the tablet is in place, rinse the mouth gently.

Shake the suspension well before each use to mix the medication evenly.

Your symptoms should improve during your treatment with acyclovir. Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

Take or use acyclovir until you finish the prescription, even if you feel better. If you stop taking acyclovir too soon or skip doses, your infection may not be completely treated or may become more difficult to treat. The delayed-release buccal tablet is applied as a one-time dose.

Order Herpes Medication On Your Terms

Need a prescription for herpes medication? We make it easy to buy valacyclovir online so you can treat genital herpes at home, safely and privately. It still isn’t possible to get prescription medication for herpes without a doctor or order Valtrex without a prescription. But with wisp, you can message a doctor to get prescription medication for herpes whether you have insurance or not. We also ship the best over the counter herpes meds to help manage the frequency and severity of genital outbreaks.

Tired of waiting rooms?

Get discreet online herpes treatment without the hassle of making a doctor’s appointment.

Extra meds, delivered free

We’ll send you enough antiviral medication to ensure it’s there when you need it. Take Valtrex every day, or at the first sign of an outbreak

Hassle-free, judgement-free

Order herpes medication online whenever you need it. Explain yourself to no one

All natural herpes treatment

Need an over the counter herpes home remedy? Got you covered with wisp’s All Natural AV Herbals

Read Also: How To Get Tested For Herpes For Free

Properties And Benefits Of Grapefruit Essential Oil

Rebalancing , if inhaled, stimulates and revitalizes the body, infusing a new energy charge. It favors the correct functionality of the endocrine glands in the production of hormones that regulate the primary functions of the organism, such as the sleep / wake cycle, hunger / satiety and those who intervene on the stability of the mood.

For this reason it is indicated in the treatment of nervous hunger in the changes of season, to favor the adaptation of the organism to climatic changes to overcome jet lag in times of nervous breakdown, anxiety or severe stress due to unbalanced rhythms of life. This regulatory action of the hormonal system also has the effect of increasing the immune system.

Toning muscle , if massaged, helpsprepare the muscles to the effort if used after sport, it helps to relax them to relax them. This anti-fatigue action is particularly useful even in the presence of muscle pain.

Slimming , if diluted in a vegetable oil, performs a draining and fat burner action, as it stimulates lymphatic circulation and dissolves the accumulations of localized adiposity , firming the tissues. For this reason it is often found in massage oilsagainst cellulite and water retention.

Purifying the skin , it is commonly used in the treatment of oily, impure, dull complexion skin , and in the treatment of acne , by virtue of its astringent and balancing action and the excessive production of sebum

You May Like: Can Herpes Cause Pelvic Pain