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Herpes Medication Pros and Cons
Below is a breakdown of considerations both for and against oral antiviral medications.
Advantages
When these drugs work, they can be very effective
Acyclovir (Zovirax), Valacyclovir (Valtrex) and famcyclovir (Famvir) are normally effective both in treating the active outbreak, as well as in helping to prevent recurrences if taken daily.
Valacyclovir can help to reduce viral shedding
Viral shedding is a concern because it means that the herpes virus can be spread at times when there are no signs or symptoms. Valacyclovir has been proven to reduce, but not eliminate, this risk when taken on a daily basis. Certain herbs have also been proven to reduce herpes viral shedding in clinical studies, so a natural alternative can also be considered.
Acyclovir is covered by medical insurance in many parts of the world
This reduces the cost and can make the treatment much more economical. However, it is a much needed reduction - the market prices for these three drugs are astronomical, particularly if you need to take them daily or on a regular basis.
These are the only FDA approved medications for Genital Herpes (HSV-2)
Comprehensive and large scale clinical studies must be established before a treatment can be approved by the FDA for use on Genital Herpes. Trials have been conducted for these treatments, proving their safety, tolerability and efficacy.
Disadvantages
There is a long list of possible side-effects
Including mild adverse reactions such as diarrhea, nausea and headaches but also much more serious possible side-effects such as kidney damage, hair loss and depression. Not everyone is affected in the same way. The milder side-effects are quite common but some people may never experience any side-effect.
These drugs can be very expensive, as costly as US$400 per month
The typical cost is US$130.00 for 1 x ten day course (which is enough for approximately one outbreak). If you require Valacyclovir (Valtrex) for a year of suppressive therapy this will cost close to US$1100 per year. There are however different strengths and doses (such as the generic Acyclovir) and the cost is less when covered by Medical Insurance.
These drugs only work while you are taking them
These medications need to be taken on an ongoing basis and regularly refilled by your pharmacy. You can take them either as a suppressive therapy (every day) or episodic (only when you actually have symptoms), depending on how your Doctor prescribes them for you.
These drugs are NOT effective when taken 72 hours after symptoms begin
You need to begin these drugs as soon as you feel any signs or symptoms and no later than 72 hours after in order for the medication to work as directed.
A prescription is required
Although this is a pro for safety, it can be embarrassing and inconvenient when you have to obtain a prescription from your Doctor and then have it filled by your pharmacy each time you need a refill. This process adds to the cost and is not ideal for discretion.
They do not work for everyone
This is of course the case with all treatments. Although these drugs work very well for a lot of people there are many people who they simply do not work for. Other alternatives are available if these drugs do not work for you.
Discounts
Trusted Online Pharmacy
US Prescriptions is a reliable and certified US based Pharmacy that has prices consistently lower than the retail average for Valtrex, Acyclovir, Famvir and Zovirax cream and they have agreed to offer our website visitors an additional $5.00 discount. To claim this discount, use this promotion code whenever you place an order: HCF1001
Where to Now?
- Compare Herpes Medications
- Herpes Treatment Alternatives
- Herpes Supplements
- Boost the Immune System
 Ask questions and get support right now in the Herpes Support Forum
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