Medication
The degree and recurrence of the symptoms can be lessened, and the possibility of the herpes virus spreading by taking certain medications. Antiviral medications are the most common treatments doctors recommend for this use. These medicines include penciclovir, valacyclovir, famciclovir, and acyclovir.
Acyclovir can help minimize first-time or recurring outbreaks of genital herpes. In addition, it eases discomfort and speeds up recovery in people with shingles and chickenpox. Valacyclovir and famciclovir require less frequent doses than acyclovir. Thus, some individuals prefer taking them. However, the use of these drugs in children has not been approved.
Doctors may prescribe antiviral drugs for oral, intravenous, or topical application. In rare circumstances, doctors might advise oral treatment over topical therapy. For instance, a 2017 study found that oral valacyclovir, famciclovir, and acyclovir are more successful in treating herpes labialis than topical drugs.
Confirming that you have herpes before starting any medication treatment is essential. Your local doctor’s office and a sexual health center provide straightforward blood tests. After being diagnosed, you can begin taking herpes treatment.
