Different Types of Genital Herpes Medications
Introduction
Sexually transmitted infections, also known as STIs or STDs, may come in many different forms. One of the most common sexually transmitted infections is genital herpes. In this article, we will provide all of the information you need regarding genital herpes and the different medications that are used to treat it. Whilst many people will be aware of the infection, not many people are aware of the medications that are used to treat it. There is often some confusion about whether some STIs are actually treatable, which is why it is important to point out the medications that can be used.
Key Takeaways
Genital herpes can be treated:
While genital herpes cannot be cured, it can be effectively managed with medications like Aciclovir and Valtrex, which reduce pain, irritation, and help heal blisters.
Medications for herpes:
Aciclovir and Valtrex are commonly prescribed for treating genital herpes. Aciclovir helps with pain and healing, while Valtrex prevents the virus from spreading and worsening.
Consult a doctor if symptoms appear:
If you notice symptoms like red blisters or itching, see a doctor immediately for diagnosis and avoid sexual activity until your condition is confirmed.
What is genital herpes?
Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection, which is often shortened to STI or STD (sexually transmitted disease), that is transmitted through sexual activity be it vaginal, oral, or anal. Genital herpes will cause small blisters on and around the genitals and is most commonly found on the penis, vagina, and anus, and can even be found on the mouth if they are contracted during oral sex.
How is genital herpes transmitted?
Genital herpes is transmitted through non-protected sexual activity with someone that has the infection. Herpes can be seen as a small red blister on the genitals or mouth, however, you can still carry and pass on genital herpes without there being any visible signs. Herpes is transmitted through skin-on-skin contact with an infected area whether there are visible blisters there or not.
How can genital herpes be treated?
The most common form of treatment for genital herpes will be tablets. There are however other treatments that are available and these can come in the form of capsules or creams. When you begin to notice the signs of genital herpes you should visit your doctor. They will then be able to accurately diagnose your condition and they will then give you a prescription for the medication that you require. Symptoms of genital herpes include:
Small red blisters around the genitals
Pain or itching in private areas
Unusual vaginal discharge
Small white bumps around the genitals
When you spot these symptoms you should ensure to contact your doctor in order to diagnose your condition. You should also refrain from sexual activity until you are aware of what your condition is as you do not want to pass the infection on to another person.
What are the different types of genital herpes medications?
The two genital herpes medications that you can purchase online from UK Meds are Aciclovir and Valtrex. Both of these medications are in tablet form, and both of them are only able to be purchased when you have a prescription.
Can you buy genital herpes medication over the counter?
Much like many other medications, genital herpes medications are only available to purchase when you have a prescription. This can either be an existing prescription given to you by a doctor, or a prescription that has been attained through an online consultation with an independent prescriber at UK Meds.
Aciclovir
What is Aciclovir?
Aciclovir is used to help treat and reduce the effects of the symptoms of genital herpes. Aciclovir tablets are taken to help ease the pain and irritation caused by genital herpes, as well as help speed up the process of healing sores and blisters caused by herpes. Aciclovir can also be used to treat other skin conditions such as chicken pox and shingles.
What form does Aciclovir come in?
The version of Aciclovir that you can purchase online from UK Meds is in tablet form, with different packet sizes being available depending on the individual case and outbreak.
What dosage does Aciclovir have?
The strength of Aciclovir that you can purchase from UK Meds is 400mg. You will be told by your doctor or independent prescriber how often you will need to take your medication when you need to take it, and how long you will need to take it.
What does Aciclovir do for herpes?
Aciclovir is used to help treat the pain and irritation that genital herpes can create. The medication will ease these symptoms, and will also play a role in helping speed up the healing process of the blisters caused by genital herpes.
How long does Aciclovir take to work?
Aciclovir tablets will vary on how quickly they will begin to help your condition based on the severity of your outbreak. Aciclovir will begin to ease pain and itching around two hours after you have taken the tablet however it could take up to three days before you see any improvement in your symptoms.
Valtrex
What is Valtrex?
Valtrex is a medication that is used to help treat genital herpes, as well as herpes which is non-genital. Valtrex is useful for treating genital herpes and stopping the spread of the infection. Valtrex works by stopping infections from reproducing and worsening.
What form does Valtrex come in?
Valtrex is a medication used for treating genital herpes and comes in tablet form when purchased online from UK Meds. There are also different options for packet sizes depending on the recommended amount you are told to purchase from your doctor.
What dosage does Valtrex have?
Valtrex is available in one strength and that is 500mg. This strength will be enough to help clear up your infection. Your doctor may recommend different package sizes, as well as how long you should take your tablets, and when would be the best time to take them.
What does Valtrex do for herpes?
Unlike Aciclovir, Valtrex works directly with the herpes infection to prevent it from reproducing and spreading. The medication is designed to stop the spread of the infection and to stop your infection from getting worse.
How long does Valtrex take to work?
For most people, it will take Valtrex around seven to ten days before you start to notice a real improvement in your symptoms. However, you should begin to experience some relief around two to three days into taking the medication. It is important to take all of the medication you have been prescribed in order to ensure the infection is properly treated, and if you feel no improvement after 10 days you may wish to speak with your doctor.
Aciclovir vs Valtrex
Below we've provided a simple comparison summary table to highlight the key differences between Aciclovir and Valtex:
Topic | Aciclovir | Valtrex |
| Uses | Reduces pain and itching and helps heal herpes blisters. | Stops herpes infections from reproducing. |
| Strength | 400mg | 500mg |
| Prescription Only? | Yes | Yes |
Sources
Medically Reviewed by:
Dr. Alexis Missick MBChB. MRCGP
GMC reference no: 7151419
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