Herpes simplex virus (HSV) are treated with antiviral agents called nucleosides and nucleotide analogues. They block reproduction of Virus that causes Herpes Simplex. Acyclovir, valacyclovir and famciclovir are used for oral treatment Herpes simplex virus drugs. There are other similar antiviral drugs but generally used to treat other different viruses.
Acyclovir, Valacyclovir and famcyclovir class of drugs may primarily reduce severity of an epidemic. Valacyclovir and famcyclovir also accelerate the healing process and reduce transmissible effectiveness of virus.
Valacyclovir (Valtrex)
Valacyclovir's brand name is Valtrex. It is a prodrug of acyclovir, which means that it converts into the active drug acyclovir once inside the body and is utilized and absorbed more efficiently. This doesn't make this drug more effective than acyclovir, it just means you need to take less of it to achieve the same result.
Valtrex has been approved for the treatment and suppression of genital herpes. This means that it can be prescribed as a daily medication to help stop outbreaks from coming back. However, it is normally only prescribed in this way if the outbreaks are very frequent, such as 6 or more per year. The majority of people will be prescribed to take Valtrex only when they are experiencing symptoms.
Recommended Dose
To prevent an outbreak happening Valtrex is usually taken once daily. When it is used to treat the active symptoms only, a less concentrated dose of 2 tablets per day can be prescribed for 3 to 10 days. Once again, the course should be started within the first 24 hours of noticing any signs or symptoms to be effective.
