Valacyclovir Vs Acyclovir Vs Famciclovir: Who Wins
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There are several drugs used to treat herpes, all of which are antiviral medications. The most popular, effective and widely used herpes medications currently available are valacyclovir , acyclovir and famciclovir . All of these drugs work through a similar mechanism, and all have their place in treating cases of HSV-1 and HSV-2. But when it comes down to it, in a battle between Valacyclovir vs. Acyclovir vs. Famciclovir, which herpes medication is the best?
In this guide, well compare these three herpes medications and explain which one is the best choice for treating and managing the virus.
Talk With Your Doctor About Herpes Medications
Its important to first talk with your doctor before using over-the-counter products like docosanol or other home remedies.
If this is the first time you have symptoms of HSV with blisters or sores, your doctor will first diagnose if you have HSV, the type and discuss options to manage your condition. They will tell you about prescription and nonprescription alternatives to treat your HSV infection.
Tell your doctor if you have any serious health conditions including if you have a weakened immune system.
Your doctor will also tell you what you can expect with an HSV infection, how long it may last, and what do to prevent spreading HSV to others while you have an active infection.
Here are answers to a few commonly asked questions about herpes simplex virus.
Which Is Better For Shingles: Acyclovir Or Valacyclovir
A randomized, double-blind, controlled clinical trial found that valacyclovir leads to the resolution of pain symptoms associated with a shingles outbreak faster than acyclovir. Treatment with valacyclovir was also linked to fewer ocular complications from shingles, which can be damaging and difficult to treat.
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Other Uses For This Medicine
Acyclovir is also sometimes used to treat eczema herpeticum to treat and prevent herpes infections of the skin, eyes, nose, and mouth in patients with human immunodeficiency virus , and to treat oral hairy leukoplakia .
This medication may be prescribed for other uses ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
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.
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Drug Treatment For Genital Herpes
If you are infected with genital herpes, your doctor may prescribe oral antiviral drugs to help ease your symptoms during both a first episode and recurrent episodes. Your doctor may also suggest taking antiviral drugs daily as a suppressive therapy to reduce symptoms and protect partners.
Remember, though, that antiviral drugs do not wipe out the virus completely. It continues to live in your body, so if you stop taking the drugs that suppress it, you may have more frequent or more intense symptom outbreaks, and the risk of your transmitting the virus to others rises.
Three antiviral drugs, all taken by mouth, are used to treat genital herpes:
Coconut Oil Cures Herpes
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Additional Treatment For Oral Herpes
Antiviral pills are often a better choice for treating oral herpes, especially if you have recurrent outbreaks . Theyre typically less expensive than oral herpes creams and are effective options to consider.
If you have persistent oral herpes infections, taking oral antiviral medications may be a better option than creams. Here are three of the most commonly used oral antivirals with their typical cold sore treatment doses:
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Valacyclovir : 2,000 mg by mouth every 12 hours for 1 day
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Famciclovir: 1,500 mg by mouth one time only
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Acyclovir buccal tablets : 50 mg dissolved in the cheek one time only. Healthcare providers sometimes prescribe different doses of oral acyclovir capsules and tablets. This is considered an off-label use, as theyre not FDA-approved for treating cold sores.
There are currently no studies that directly compare all three antiviral medications. But a review of multiple studies found that valacyclovir healed cold sores faster than acyclovir.
Coverage And Cost Comparison Of Acyclovir Vs Valacyclovir
Acyclovir is a prescription medication that is covered by both commercial and Medicare prescription insurance plans. The out-of-pocket price for acyclovir can average more than $50, but with a coupon from SingleCare, you could pay less than $10 at participating pharmacies.
Valacyclovir is a prescription medication that is covered by both commercial and Medicare drug insurance plans. The out-of-pocket price of valacyclovir can be more than $200 for one prescription. With a coupon from SingleCare, you could obtain valacyclovir for approximately $13.
| Acyclovir |
| $13-$75 |
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What Causes Oral Herpes
Oral herpes is a common condition. Many people know it as cold sores or fever blisters. This condition is caused by the herpes simplex virus . There are two different types of HSV. Type 1 HSV is most often associated with oral herpes and can cause sores on or around the mouth. Type 2 HSV typically causes genital herpes. Well only be talking about oral herpes in this article.
HSV, commonly referred to as herpes, is a virus that can be spread from person to person. Oral herpes is usually spread through saliva or by touching another persons active cold sore. Theres currently no cure or vaccine for herpes, but outbreaks typically resolve within a few weeks.
Are Acyclovir And Valacyclovir The Same
Acyclovir and valacyclovir are closely related chemically, but they are not the same drug. Valacyclovir is the prodrug of acyclovir. During first-pass metabolism of the oral dosage form, valacyclovir is converted to acyclovir, allowing more active ingredients to be absorbed from oral administration and also allowing more time between doses.
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When To See A Medical Professional
Seek medical advice if you notice any serious adverse effects while taking valacyclovir or acyclovir.
Also see a medical professional if:
- The cold sores dont heal within 10 days of taking your medication
- You have frequent outbreaks
- You have swollen gums and sores in your mouth
- Your immune system is weakened
- You have new or worsening symptoms despite the treatment
What Are The Treatment Options For Genital Herpes
Treatment with antiviral medication is a good idea the very first time people have an outbreak of genital herpes. Later outbreaks are often milder, and then medication isnât always needed. Preventive treatment may be considered if the outbreaks are frequent.
Genital herpes may clear up on its own. But the symptoms are often more severe the first time you have an outbreak. Most people then use antiviral medication to relieve the symptoms and prevent complications. These medications include aciclovir, famciclovir and valaciclovir.
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Is There A Cure Or Treatment For Genital Herpes
There is no cure for genital herpes. However, daily use of antiviral medicines can prevent or shorten outbreaks. Antiviral medicines also can reduce the chance of spreading it to others.
Though several clinical trials have tested vaccines against genital herpes, there is no vaccine currently available to prevent infection. One vaccine trial showed efficacy among women whose partners had HSV-2, but only among women not infected with HSV-1. Efficacy was not observed among men whose partners had HSV-2. Another trial testing the same vaccine showed some protection from genital HSV-1 infection, but none from HSV-2.
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 pregnant people with genital herpes, according to the .
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Best For Canker Sores: Norasil Medicine For Genital Herpes
Next on the list, weve got yet another medicine that manages to win our hearts. Its the Norasil Medicine For Genital Herpes and its widely considered as the medicine that has the most suitable features. The norasil medicinefor genital herpes starts feeling better and it has constant quality. The manufacturer says: Norasil doesnt stop at the condition, Our formula helps prevent skin conditions from popping back up again and again. This medicated ointment not only affects the root cause of conditions but helps provide fast acting relief for the discomfort caused by them.
Above all, the norasil medicine for genitalherpes is made with active ingredients that help manage and prevent recurrences of skin conditions like eczema, fever blisters , genital herpes , rashes, cold sores, shingles, impetigo, canker sores, rosacea, and more.
Almost all customers quickly discovered that the medicine is one of the best so far. In addition, they say that medicine is the best thing out there in the market. Also, they say that note: if the ointment gets on too large an area, the skin peels off and gets irritated. Obviously, this product passed the test and had very satisfied buyers eager to share their experience.
Why We Like This:
- Get healing relief for itching, pain, and swelling on the skin.
- Its more than topical relief, Norasil is there to aid in minimizing recurring symptoms.
- New and hot releases.
Why We Like This:
Warnings Of Acyclovir And Valacyclovir
Both acyclovir and valacyclovir are contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to either drug. Cautions should also be used if a patient has had a previous reaction to famciclovir, ganciclovir, penciclovir, or valganciclovir as there is a chance for cross-sensitivity between these drugs.
Acyclovir and valacyclovir should also be used cautiously in patients with renal dysfunction. Dose adjustments may be necessary to avoid central nervous system toxicity. Signs of CNS toxicity include agitations, hallucinations, confusion, and delirium. These are more likely in the elderly population. Good hydration is necessary to avoid precipitation of the drugs in the tubules of the kidneys.
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Suppressive Therapy For Herpes
If you have frequent recurrences of genital herpes
Taking medication every day for many months will stop recurrences completely, or their frequency and severity are greatly reduced. This is called suppressive or prophylactic treatment. Generally, after a year, it is recommended you stop the medication for a few months to see if recurrences have become less frequent. This type of continuous treatment can be repeated if necessary. This type of daily treatment tends to be prescribed if you have frequent or severe recurrences of genital herpes more than six times per year.
Suppressive treatment is valaciclovir 500mg taken daily. This may be increased to 500mg taken twice daily on individual basis of clinical presentation and/or if you are having breakthrough recurrences on 500mg daily. The alternative is oral aciclovir 400mg taken twice daily .
A Doctor can give you a prescription every 3 months for up to 12 months and ongoing if your recurrences are still frequent.
Effectiveness is optimised if taken regularly as prescribed.
For special events
A course of medication may help to prevent a recurrence during special times. This may be an option even if you do not have frequent recurrences, but want to have the least risk of a recurrence – for example, during a honeymoon, holiday or during exams.
How To Cure Genital Herpes At Home With Holistic Treatment
Herpes cant be curedyou will carry the virus throughout your lifetime. However, outbreaks can be managed. Herpes outbreaks are closely tied to how well your immune system is doing at managing the virus in your system on its own. If youve been feeling stressed, tired, or sick, your immune defenses are probably lowered . Providing your body with immune support can help your health holistically and help prevent breakouts.
- All-Natural AV Herbals: These supplements use herbs with natural antiviral properties to boost your immune system and keep outbreaks at bay. Incorporate them into your everyday routine to support whole body health or take them when you first feel an outbreak coming on to reduce the length and severity of the outbreak.
- L-Lysine: L-Lysine is a naturally occurring amino acid that works by blocking the amino acid that is responsible for multiplying the herpes virus. When used consistently, L-Lysine will block arginine and help prevent outbreaks from happening.
You can use these over-the-counter supplements in conjunction with prescription antivirals to help manage your cold sores and reduce symptoms. If you experience frequent outbreaks, talk to your doctor about what treatments and routines may work best for you.
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Is There A Cure Or Treatment For Herpes
Theres no cure for the herpes virus yet. A herpes vaccine doesnt currently exist, as the herpes virus has more complicated DNA than most infections, creating challenges for researchers.
However, medication can help with symptoms, like sores, and outbreaks. Medication also lowers the risk of transmission to others. You can take most medications for herpes orally, though you may also apply some as a cream or receive them by injection.
Can I Use Acyclovir Or Valacyclovir While Pregnant
The acyclovir and valacyclovir pregnancy registries have followed outcomes for fetuses exposed to these drugs in utero. There has been no drug-associated risk of major birth defects in pregnant women. There is insufficient data for a link to miscarriages. There are, however, known risks to untreated HSV infections during pregnancy. Primary herpes infections during the first trimester can cause neonatal chorioretinitis, microcephaly, and skin lesions.
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To Medicate Or Not To Medicate For Herpes
Oral herpes medication can improve your quality of life, give you a feeling of control and physical and mental relief from experiencing recurrences of herpes.
Knowing about the treatment options provides you with information to have an open and informed discussion with your Doctor about what is best for you.
How To Get Rid Of Genital Herpes Fast: Is It Possible
The herpes simplex virus type 2, better known as genital herpes, is a sexually transmitted infection without a known cure. Although its not yet possible to permanently get rid of genital herpes, a number of techniques are proven to speed up the recovery of an outbreak and reduce unwanted symptoms.
You may recognize a genital herpes outbreak by the appearance of blisters and lesions. Most people experience their first outbreak two to 12 days after initial exposure to the virus. After the blisters break, it may take up to four weeks for herpes ulcers to heal.
After the first outbreak, recurring outbreaks are common but dont last nearly as long. Sores tend to heal within three to seven days in recurring outbreaks, and the number of outbreak periods may even decrease over time.
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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.
When To Talk With A Doctor
Herpes isnt curable, but it can be treated with antiviral medications. These medications can reduce the severity of an outbreak.
If you suspect you have herpes, make an appointment with a doctor. Its also a good idea to talk with your doctor about a herpes screening if:
- your current or previous sexual partner has herpes
- youre planning to have sex with a new partner
- you had a risky sexual encounter
If youve already been diagnosed with herpes and youre currently experiencing an outbreak, the outbreak might go away without causing complications and without treatment.
However, its wise to make an appointment with your doctor if:
- the outbreak is particularly painful or unbearable
- youre experiencing symptoms of other STIs
- youre experiencing frequent, severe outbreaks
If youre sexually active, its a good idea to have regular STI screenings. You can book appointments for STI screenings with your doctors office. You could also try a local clinic, certain pharmacies, or Planned Parenthood.
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