1. Famciclovir (Famvir) is a prescription antiviral pill for herpes outbreaks. It is a prodrug (hybrid) of penciclovir, and is more effective than older Rx drugs for some herpes sufferers. Because it is absorbed better by the stomach than acyclovir it cannot be taken as often, according to KP.org (Kaiser).
2. Acyclovir, also a prescription antiviral pill, comes in generic form, so its less expensive for patients. It is recommended for protecting newborn babies from getting herpes simplex from the mother.
Herpes simplex ulcer
3. Suppressive therapy – one of the above or similarly effective anti virals is taken daily. This has shown to reduce outbreaks by as much as 75%. Also a specific trial of 400 mg of acyclovir twice daily showed over 90% reduction in shedding of the infection, i.e. the chances of transimissin of the virus was greatly reduced. Taking 1 to 2 anti-viral pills daily has shown no health risks.
4. Best topical treatment - Acyclovir cream: Used at first sign of a sore , it may prevent the sore from developing.
5. Abreva – An over the counter cream, it is the only topical available without a prescription that is clinically proven to speed healing. Other creams and ointments will numb the area of the sore and decrease pain, but they also lengthen the healing time, so are not recommended.
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