Genital Herpes
Genital herpes is an infection passed on through sexual contact. Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) is the main cause; HSV-1 can also be responsible. Outbreaks can recur, with periods without symptoms in between.
Medicines used to treat Genital Herpes
Key points
- Some people carry HSV without ever having a noticeable outbreak.
- Between episodes, the virus stays in nerve tissue.
- Antivirals do not eliminate the infection, but they can reduce how often and how severely outbreaks occur.
Triggers and viral shedding
Reactivation may follow stress, illness, sun exposure or hormonal changes. The virus can also be shed at low levels without visible sores. This shedding can happen between outbreaks.
Symptoms
A first episode is often the most severe. Tingling or burning can come before small blisters, which break and then heal. Later outbreaks are usually shorter and milder.
Treatment options
Antivirals work by blocking viral replication. Valaciclovir and famciclovir are established options. Tablet options include Famvir (famciclovir) and Valtrex (valaciclovir), both for herpes simplex and genital herpes. They can also shorten an outbreak. It can begin when symptoms first appear, or be used every day to make recurrences less frequent and reduce transmission to a partner. Delivery to Malaysia is by pharmacy partners in India in discreet packaging.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if a first episode brings fever, difficulty urinating or widespread sores. These symptoms may need closer attention.
Further reading
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