What are the treatments for herpes?

Treating herpes

Genital herpes cannot be cured, but there are ways to treat outbreaks. Prompt treatment with oral antiviral medication or antiviral cream can shorten the duration of eruptions and, in some cases, pain symptoms.

Treatment must be applied promptly for maximum effectiveness. If antiviral medicine is started before exposure to the triggering factor (i.e., sunlight), it will provide some protection.

Research on sunscreens has also shown mixed results, with some protection reported under experimental conditions that could not be replicated under natural conditions. In the long-term, the number of relapses of herpes labialis can be limited with oral antiviral medication.

Treating oral herpes

In moderate and severe cases, antiviral treatment is often recommended for episodes of primary oral herpes in healthy patients. Oral acyclovir, 500mg daily for 1 week, can slightly reduce healing time and duration of pain. Valacyclovir, 1 g twice a day for 7 days, and famciclovir, 500 mg twice a day or once a day for 7 days, are also logical regimens. Treatment is most effective when initiated promptly.

Oral medication or sunscreen might help prevent relapses, but research shows mixed results. In the long term, the number of relapses can be limited with oral antiviral medication.