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Can Antiviral Medications Stop Genital Herpes?
Published: Aug 24, 2024
Antiviral medications can be a game-changer for those suffering from genital herpes. Discover how they work to alleviate symptoms and reduce recurrences.
How Antivirals Work
Antiviral medications like acyclovir, famciclovir, and valacyclovir are designed to interfere with the virus's ability to multiply. By doing this, they help to reduce the duration and severity of outbreaks. These medications are most effective when started early, ideally within 72 hours of the first symptoms.
First Episode Treatment
For the initial outbreak of genital herpes, antiviral therapy is essential. It can shorten the healing time of lesions and reduce the intensity of symptoms like pain and fever. Most people are treated with oral antivirals, but severe cases may require intravenous treatment.
Managing Recurrences
Many individuals experience recurrent episodes of genital herpes. Antiviral therapy can be used either episodically, when symptoms first appear, or as daily suppressive therapy. Suppressive therapy can reduce the frequency of outbreaks and is often preferred by those with frequent recurrences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Antivirals reduce the virus's ability to multiply, shortening outbreaks and reducing symptoms.
Yes, they can significantly reduce the severity and duration of first outbreaks.
Episodic treatment at symptom onset or daily suppressive therapy are options for recurrent outbreaks.
Intravenous treatment is reserved for severe cases with complications.
Key Takeaways
Antivirals offer a powerful tool in managing genital herpes, especially when used promptly.
References
- Mertz GJ, Critchlow CW, Benedetti J, et al. Double-blind placebo-controlled trial of oral acyclovir in first-episode genital herpes simplex virus infection. JAMA 1984; 252:1147.
- Perry CM, Wagstaff AJ. Famciclovir. A review of its pharmacological properties and therapeutic efficacy in herpesvirus infections. Drugs 1995; 50:396.
- Benedetti JK, Zeh J, Corey L. Clinical reactivation of genital herpes simplex virus infection decreases in frequency over time. Ann Intern Med 1999; 131:14.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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