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Tag: Herpes treatment

Explore our medication guides and pharmacology articles within this category.

Is There an Over the Counter Equivalent to Acyclovir?

4 min read
While acyclovir is a powerful prescription antiviral medication used for various herpes viruses, many people wonder if there is an over the counter equivalent to acyclovir for managing outbreaks like cold sores. No direct oral or broad-spectrum topical equivalent exists, but there is one FDA-approved antiviral cream available over-the-counter for cold sores.

What Are the Side Effects of Pritelivir?

3 min read
While initial human clinical trials showed that pritelivir was generally well-tolerated with common adverse events like nausea and headache, a 2013 FDA hold due to safety signals in animal studies highlighted important safety considerations. This new antiviral is still under investigation, specifically for immunocompromised individuals with drug-resistant herpes.

What is valacyclovir taking for? A comprehensive guide to its uses

4 min read
Valacyclovir (brand name Valtrex) is a potent antiviral medication approved for treating infections caused by herpes simplex viruses and varicella-zoster virus. This prescription drug is most effective when taken at the first sign of symptoms to manage outbreaks, reduce pain, and accelerate healing.

How Quickly Will Valacyclovir Work for Cold Sores, Genital Herpes, and Shingles?

5 min read
Although valacyclovir begins working within hours of your first dose, most people typically notice significant symptom relief within 2 to 3 days. How quickly will valacyclovir work for you depends heavily on the condition being treated and how promptly you begin medication. Starting at the first sign of tingling or discomfort is key to maximizing its effectiveness in shortening an outbreak.

Where can I get topical acyclovir? A complete guide to antiviral creams

4 min read
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections are highly common, affecting a large percentage of the population, and topical acyclovir is a standard treatment for localized outbreaks of cold sores and genital herpes. For those wondering, **Where can I get topical acyclovir?**, the answer involves navigating the need for a valid prescription, as it is not available over-the-counter.

Is Valacyclovir a High Risk Medication? A Detailed Safety Analysis

4 min read
In 2023, over 7 million prescriptions for valacyclovir were filled in the United States [1.10.1, 1.10.3]. This widespread use raises an important question for patients and caregivers: Is valacyclovir a high risk medication? While generally safe for many, it carries significant conditional risks.

What are the benefits of taking valacyclovir daily?

4 min read
Millions of people worldwide are affected by herpes simplex virus, which causes recurrent outbreaks. Taking daily suppressive therapy is a widely-used strategy for managing the virus, so what are the benefits of taking valacyclovir daily for individuals with frequent herpes episodes?