Which Antiviral Is Best For Herpes

Drug Interactions Of Acyclovir Vs Valacyclovir

Acyclovir and valacyclovir are known to have negative effects on both the kidneys and the liver. For this reason, both drugs may be dangerous to take with drugs that are also nephrotoxic or hepatotoxic. In some cases, the risk is so severe that the concurrent use with these drugs is contraindicated. This is the case with cidofovir. Other drugs are strongly discouraged from being used concomitantly with acyclovir or valacyclovir for the same concerns. These include capreomycin, foscarnet, and mannitol.

Vaccinations against varicella and zoster have significantly decreased outbreaks of these viruses. However, the administration of live attenuated vaccines depend on the bodys immune system and natural response to the vaccine to produce antibodies in order to be effective. For that reason, acyclovir and valacyclovir should not be administered within a specific window before and after administering these vaccines. Your healthcare provider can provide more specific information prior to your vaccine.

This is not intended to be a comprehensive list of all potential drug interactions. Please ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information and be sure they know all prescription drugs and supplements you are taking prior to beginning antiviral therapy.

Foods To Avoid During Herpes

Here are some foods that you might not eat if you have herpes:

Arginine and Acidity

Arginine is an amino acid that is plentiful in specific foods and can increase the potential that you will experience a herpes blister, either genital or oral. L-lysine is another amino acid that has anti-viral properties and can help reduce the effect of arginine and your potential for an outbreak. However, lysine has acidic properties, and when taken with acid-rich foods like dairy products or sweets, it can lead to hyperacidity in the body. This imbalance can also trigger an outbreak.

Sweets

Foods that are sweet or have sugar are high in the amino acid arginine. This includes chocolate and raisins. Other foods that are high in sugar include soft drinks and foods made with high fructose corn syrup, such as popsicles, fruit juices, some breakfast cereals, candy bars, cough syrups, drink mixes, ketchup and jams and jellies. Each of these products contains sugars and syrups that will increase your risk of developing new herpes lesions.

Nuts

Nuts are high in arginine and low in lysine, increasing your potential for an outbreak so avoid peanuts and peanut butter because of the high amount of arginine in the products. Other nuts are also high in arginine, such as almonds, Brazil nuts, cashews, filberts, pecans and walnuts.

Caffeine

Herbal Remedies to Cure Genital Herpes Outbreaks

Vitamins to Prevent Genital Herpes Outbreaks

Vitamin A

Vitamin C

Vitamin E

Genital Herpes And Pregnancy

Its really important to speak to a healthcare worker if you have herpes during pregnancy, especially if it’s your first outbreak. There’s a risk that your baby can develop neonatal herpes which can be very dangerous or even fatal for the baby. If you have herpes, your healthcare provider will be able to prescribe antiviral treatment to keep your baby safe and help you have a healthy pregnancy.

Speak to a healthcare worker for more information or if you have any concerns.

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What Are Recurrences Of Herpes And How Likely Are They

Recurrences are repeat symptoms which appear at or close to the place where the infection was first noticed. These are often fairly minor and may be no more than a small spot that heals in a few days. They may be accompanied by sensations itches or nerve twinges. They are unlikely to be as severe as first symptoms and may be almost unnoticed.

Peppermint Prunella Sage Rosemary And Thyme

In a separate study, biology at the University of Heidelberg in Heidelberg, Germany discovered not only that lemon balm , but peppermint , Prunella , rosemary , and thyme are all strong botanical anti-virals.

Greater than 90% of both the herpes simplex 1 and herpes simplex 2 viruses were neutralized by treating the affected areas of the skin with these herbs before eruptions occurred.

The biologists involved in the study believed that applying any of these herbs in the form of a strong tea before a herpes outbreak would be therapeutic.

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Is There A Cure Or Treatment For Herpes

There is no cure for herpes. Antiviral medications can, however, prevent or shorten outbreaks during the period of time the person takes the medication. In addition, daily suppressive therapy for herpes can reduce the likelihood of transmission to partners.

Several clinical trials have tested vaccines against genital herpes infection, but there is currently no commercially available vaccine that is protective against genital herpes infection. One vaccine trial showed efficacy among women whose partners were HSV-2 infected, but only among women who were not infected with HSV-1. No efficacy was observed among men whose partners were HSV-2 infected. A subsequent trial testing the same vaccine showed some protection from genital HSV-1 infection, but no protection from HSV-2 infection.

Treatment Of Postherpetic Neuralgia

*Additional modalities include transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation , biofeedback and nerve blocks.

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Treating Feline Herpes Virus With Antiviral Therapy

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What Happens If Herpes Is Left Untreated

Without treatment, sores and outbreaks usually heal on their own. Oral herpes is usually considered a mild infection, but complications may appear in people with weakened immune systems.

The risk of complications with genital herpes is also low, though these include inflammation, swelling, and pain. Passing HSV-2 to a newborn can be dangerous, however. Doctors may recommend a cesarean delivery to mothers with genital herpes, according to the .

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How Should This Medicine Be Used

Acyclovir comes as a tablet, a capsule, and a suspension to take by mouth. It also comes as a delayed-release buccal tablet to apply to the upper gum of the mouth. The tablets, capsules, and suspension are usually taken with or without food two to five times a day for 5 to 10 days, starting as soon as possible after your symptoms begin. When acyclovir is used to prevent outbreaks of genital herpes, it is usually taken two to five times a day for up to 12 months. The delayed-release buccal tablet is usually applied with a dry finger as a one-time dose within 1 hour after itching, redness, burning or tingling cold sore symptoms begin but before the cold sore appears. Take or use acyclovir at around the same time every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take or use acyclovir exactly as directed. Do not take or use more or less of it or take it more often or for a longer time than prescribed by your doctor.

Do not chew, crush, suck, or swallow the delayed-release buccal tablets. Drink plenty of liquids, if you have a dry mouth while using the delayed-release buccal tablets.

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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.

Can I Get Tested For Genital Herpes

Yes, if you think you have symptoms of genital herpes or have been at risk of infection, you should speak to a healthcare worker.

There are different tests available. If you have symptoms, the most common test is to take a swab from a blister. The fluid can be tested for the herpes simplex virus.Some places may also offer blood tests to check for antibodies to the virus, but these are often not routinely available, so ask a healthcare worker if youre unsure.

If you have genital herpes you should be tested for other STIs.

Its also advised that you tell your recent sexual partner/s so they can also get tested and treated. Many people who have genital herpes do not notice anything wrong, and by telling them you can help to stop the virus being passed on.

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Soothing Eucalyptus Blend For Blisters Lesions And Cold Sores

Blisters, lesions, and cold sores caused by herpes are uncomfortable, unattractive, and painful. This blend primarily consists of oils that work against the herpes virus and inflammation. Its soothing and may provide relief against painful skin ruptures.

To make this blend youll need:

• 2 drops of lavender
• 3 drops of tea tree
• 1 tablespoon of borage base oil

Combine the essential oils together and then add to the base oil.

Use a cotton swab to apply the solution directly to the affected area.

Use a band aid to cover blisters. This may prevention further infection.

Is Acyclovir Or Valacyclovir More Effective

Acyclovir and valacyclovir were compared in the treatment of first episodes of genital herpes infections in an international double-blind, randomized trial. Acyclovir was dosed five times daily, and valacyclovir was dosed only twice daily. It found no clinically significant difference in the lesion healing time, duration of pain, or time to loss of all symptoms. Given that, valacyclovir offers the advantage of twice-daily dosing. This decreases pill burden and increases the likelihood that patients will take the regimen as prescribed until completion. Your doctor will determine what is best to treat a genital herpes infection, but twice-daily dosing may offer an advantage for valacyclovir.

In another randomized, double-blind clinical trial, acyclovir and valacyclovir oral tablet doses were compared for a herpes zoster infection, otherwise known as shingles. The results of this study showed valacyclovir significantly accelerated the resolution of pain associated with a shingles rash. While the rash itself resolved in similar times with either treatment regimen, there were fewer ocular complications in those treated with valacyclovir. Another significant advantage for valacyclovir in this study is that it only needed to be dosed three times per day as compared to five times per day for acyclovir. Ultimately, only your prescriber can determine which treatment option is best for you with an active herpes zoster infection.

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Foods That May Make Herpes Worse

According to studies from the 1980s and 90s, including one hallmark study published in Chemotherapy in 1981, the amino acid arginine may be responsible for making herpes outbreaks worse. According to the study, arginine is normally a beneficial amino acid that reduces healing time and repairs damaged tissue. However, for some reason, it also tends to make herpes outbreaks worse. This means that individuals with herpes should avoid foods with a high arginine to lysine ratio.

Healing Herpes from the Inside Out

These studies show that a variety of foods are scientifically proven to help heal and prevent herpes. Try to eat a diet rich in vitamin E, healthy fats, vitamin C, and lysine, as well as foods that are naturally anti-viral, like onions and garlic. By adding these foods to your diet and avoiding the potential herpes trigger arginine, you will reduce the number of outbreaks seen each year.

Which Herpes Medication Is Best

In the war between valacyclovir vs. acyclovir vs. famciclovir, the truth is, there is no best herpes medication. All three of the drugs are safe and proven to be effective as treatments for HSV-1, HSV-2, shingles and other forms of the herpes virus.

If you think you might have herpes, the best approach is to speak to your doctor about treatment options. Your doctor will be able to provide advice on the most effective drug for treating herpes based on your symptoms, immune system, lifestyle and overall health.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information contained herein is not a substitute for and should never be relied upon for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment.

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Protecting Your Partner And Preventing Herpes Transmission

Research shows that the single greatest fear is the fear of transmission to partners, says Dr. Handsfield.

The main ways to avoid transmitting herpes are:

• Learn to recognize how you feel when an outbreak is on the way, and stop having sex immediately.
• Dont have sex during active outbreaks.
• Always use condoms but dont rely on them during outbreaks. They dont completely cover infectious areas.
• Only after all sores have scabbed over and healed should you have sex again.
• Avoid touching your herpes sores, because you can spread them to other places on your body that way. Whenever you touch a sore, wash your hands immediately.
• Dont kiss people or have sex if you have a cold sore.
• Tell potential partners about having herpes before having sex with them, even though it may be hard.
• Ask your doctor about taking antiviral drugs regularly.

How Do I Choose The Best Antiviral For Herpes

If you are trying to select the best antiviral for herpes, realize that your motive needs to be considered. You may want to then weigh the costs of the available options because some of these medications can be pricey. Another factor to consider is how often you will have to take a particular drug. Do not forget to assess the potential side effects and drug interactions. Most important, allow your doctor to play a prominent role in your final decision.

Begin by analyzing your motives for taking an antiviral for herpes. These drugs are most commonly used to the treat the symptoms associated with breakouts and to shorten the length of each occurrence. This means that you take the medication only when there is a problem.

You may, however, be looking for a drug to suppress your symptoms so that you can reduce the number of outbreaks. This generally involves taking the medication on an ongoing basis. Some drugs may be more highly recommended for this type of usage than others. If you are experiencing your initial outbreak, you may not want to make famcyclovir your first choice unless otherwise advised. There are some questions as to whether it is comparable to its peer drugs in this regard.

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