Introduction
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs or STDs) include various conditions, with genital herpes being among the most common. This article provides detailed information about genital herpes and its treatment options. While many people recognize the infection itself, awareness about available treatments remains limited. This knowledge gap can create uncertainty about managing certain STIs. Therefore, understanding the medications used to treat genital herpes effectively is essential.
What is genital herpes?
Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection (STI/STD) spread through vaginal, oral, or anal intercourse. It causes small blisters on and around the genitals, including the penis, vagina, anus, and sometimes the mouth if contracted via oral sex.
How is genital herpes transmitted?
Genital herpes spreads through unprotected sexual contact with an infected person. Visible symptoms include small red blisters on the genitals or mouth, but transmission can occur even without noticeable signs. The infection passes through direct skin-to-skin contact with affected areas, regardless of blister presence.
How can genital herpes be treated?
Treatment primarily involves oral tablets, though capsules and creams are also options. Upon noticing symptoms—such as red blisters, genital pain or itching, unusual discharge, or white bumps—consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and prescription. Avoid sexual activity until diagnosed to prevent transmission.
What are the different types of genital herpes medications?
Two widely prescribed medications are Aciclovir and Valtrex, both available as tablets with a prescription.
Can you buy genital herpes medication over the counter?
Genital herpes medications require a prescription, obtained either from a doctor or through an online consultation with an independent prescriber.
Aciclovir
What is Aciclovir?
Aciclovir treats genital herpes symptoms, reducing pain, irritation, and blister healing time. It also helps manage chickenpox and shingles.
What forms does Aciclovir come in?
MedsBird offers Aciclovir tablets online, with packet sizes varying based on individual cases.
What is the recommended dosage of Aciclovir?
MedsBird provides 400mg Aciclovir tablets. A doctor or prescriber will specify dosage frequency, treatment duration, and optimal timing.
How does Aciclovir work for herpes?
Aciclovir eases genital herpes symptoms by reducing pain and accelerating blister healing.
How long does it take for Aciclovir to work?
Pain relief may begin within two hours, but visible symptom improvement can take up to three days, depending on outbreak severity.
Valtrex
What is Valtrex?
Valtrex treats genital and non-genital herpes by stopping viral replication and preventing infection spread.
What form does Valtrex come in?
MedsBird offers Valtrex tablets online in various package sizes based on prescribed dosage.
What is the recommended dosage of Valtrex?
Valtrex comes in 500mg tablets. A doctor will advise treatment duration and optimal intake timing.
How does Valtrex work for herpes?
Unlike Aciclovir, Valtrex directly blocks herpes replication, halting infection progression.
How long does it take for Valtrex to work?
Symptom improvement typically appears within 7–10 days, though some relief may occur in 2–3 days. Complete the full course; consult a doctor if no improvement after 10 days.
| 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 |