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Genital Herpes
Valaciclovir (Generic)

Treatment Details

Treatment Details
Directions
Side Effects
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What is Valaciclovir?
Valaciclovir is an antiviral tablet which is used to treat infections from the herpes simplex virus (HSV). If taken at the first sign of an outbreak, it can cut the outbreak short or stop it completely. It simply involves taking one tablet twice per day, so is a straightforward and convenient treatment.
There are two types of herpes infections. HSV-1 causes cold sores around the mouth. HSV-2 causes genital herpes. Valaciclovir is highly effective against both strains of the virus. The HSV causes blisters and scabs on the mucous tissues of the mouth and genitals. Valaciclovir helps existing blisters to heal and prevents the virus from spreading.
Valaciclovir is closely related to aciclovir, another antiviral tablet. In fact, the Valaciclovir tablet is converted into aciclovir when it is metabolised. This makes Valaciclovir a prodrug. It attacks the HSV in the same way as aciclovir but delivers the antiviral agent more efficiently. This means that fewer capsules need to be taken.
The branded version of Valaciclovir is called Valtrex. The active ingredient in each is identical, but unbranded Valaciclovir is significantly cheaper. Valtrex previously had the patent and rights to exclusive distribution of Valaciclovir, but that patent has since expired. There is now very little difference between the two, apart from appearance, packaging and inactive ingredients. At Curely, we still provide Valtrex, because some patients prefer a branded version even if it contains an identical active ingredient.
Some non-prescription alternatives for treating a Genital Herpes outbreak include;
- Cleaning the area with water or salt water to promote healing
- Avoid wearing tight clothing
- Use pain relief such as paracetamol
- Try to avoid your known outbreak triggers such as excess alcohol.
- Use Vaseline on the blisters to promote healing and relieve pain.
What is suppression treatment?
If you suffer from six or more outbreaks a year suppression treatment may be suitable for you. Suppression treatment is taken everyday and helps to prevent recurrent outbreaks by 70-80% and can sometime prevent outbreaks all together. Studies also show that outbreaks are milder and shorter than without suppression treatment.
Valaciclovir directions
Valaciclovir should be taken as soon as symptoms of HSV are present. It is most effective when taken 24-48 hours following an outbreak. It can be taken with or without food.
Valaciclovir comes in 500mg tablets. The recommended dosage is as follows:
Take one tablet twice daily for a period of three to five days.
If you are trying to prevent a recurrence of genital herpes, take one tablet per day.
Continue to take Valaciclovir for the recommended duration of treatment, even if you notice symptoms clearing up. This will help fully clear the outbreak. Do not skip doses, unless it is nearly time for the following dose. Never double your dose.
Many patients choose to take Valaciclovir while also using lidocaine ointment to treat the blisters on the skin. Lidocaine is effective and rarely involves any side effects.
Ensure that you remain fully hydrated while taking Valaciclovir. This is especially important for elderly patients.
As with all medicines, Valaciclovir should only be taken after carefully weighing the potential positives and negatives in conjunction with a qualified healthcare professional. The most common adverse reactions (ARs) reported by patients treated with Valaciclovir were headache and nausea.
The following side effects have also been reported:
Common (affects less than 1 in 10 patients receiving the medicine):
Feeling sick
Dizziness
Vomiting
Diarrhoea
Skin reaction after exposure to sunlight (photosensitivity)
Rash
Patient Information Leaflet: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.3037.pdf

Frequently asked questions

Can genital herpes be cured?
Genital herpes is a lifelong infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). While there is currently no cure for genital herpes, antiviral medication such as Aciclovir can help manage symptoms, reduce frequency of outbreaks and lower the risk of transition to sexual partners. It’s important to understand that while treatment can control symptoms, the virus remains dormant in body and can reactivate periodically, leading to recurrent outbreaks.
Can I still have sex if I have genital herpes?
While it’s possible to have sexual activity if you have genital herpes, it’s crucial to take precautions to reduce the risk of transmission to sexual partners. Genital herpes can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, even when there are no visible symptoms present. Therefore, its essential to communicate openly with sexual partners about your herpes status, use condoms consistently and avoid sexual activity during outbreaks or when experiencing symptoms such as itching, brining or lesions.
How long does it take for Aciclovir to work?
The effectiveness of Aciclovir in managing genital herpes symptoms can vary from person to person. Typically, Aciclovir starts to work within a few days of initiating treatment, with symptoms such as pain, itching and soars gradually improving over time. However, the duration of treatment and the time taken for complete symptom relief may vary depending on factors such as the severity of the outbreak and individuals response to medication. It’s essential to follow the prescribed dosage and treatment regimen recommended by your Curely pharmacists for optimal results.
Why does genital herpes come back?
Genital herpes is caused by a virus called herpes simples. Once you have this virus, it stays in your body. It will not spread in your body to cause blisters elsewhere. Instead, it stays in a nearby nerve and causes blisters in the same area. When the virus becomes active again, it travels along the nerve to the skin’s surface, resulting in recurrent outbreaks of symptoms. Several factors trigger the reactivation of the herpes virus, including:
- Ultraviolet light exposure: Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from sunbathing or sunbeds can trigger herpes outbreaks in some individuals.
- Friction in the genital area: Friction during sexual activity or from tight clothing can irritate the skin and trigger herpes outbreaks. Using lubricants during sex may help reduce friction and minimise the risk of outbreaks.
- Smoking and Alcohol: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption have been associated with an increased risk of recurrent genital herpes outbreaks in some individuals.
- Unavoidable triggers: Some triggers, such as being unwell, experiencing stress, hormonal fluctuations during menstrual cycles, undergoing surgery in the genital area or having a weekend immune system are unavoidable and can also contribute to the reactivation of the herpes virus.
Identifying and avoiding potential triggers can help reduce the frequency and severity of recurrent genital herpes outbreaks.
What lifestyle changes can help manage genital herpes?
Along with medication, certain lifestyle change can help manage genital herpes and reduce the frequency of outbreaks. These include maintaining good personal hygiene, avoiding triggers such as stress or fatigue and adopting a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise. Managing stress levels through relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation can also be beneficial. Additionally, getting enough sleep and practicing safe sex can help prevent outbreaks and reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to sexual partners.