Genital Herpes Drug Information

This drug is used in certain patients to treat or help prevent outbreaks of herpes simplex on the skin (mouth, lips, genitals, anus). Famciclovir is also used to treat outbreaks of shingles (herpes zoster). The viruses that cause these infections are similar. They live in the body quietly until an outbreak is triggered. Famciclovir is not a cure for the infections, but treating an outbreak can speed up healing of the sores, decrease pain, and lower the risk of complications from the virus (e.g., whole body infection, brain infection, persistent pain after sore healing).

Valacyclovir is used in children to treat cold sores (herpes labialis) and chickenpox (varicella zoster). It is used in adults to treat cold sores and shingles (herpes zoster). Valacyclovir does not cure these diseases, but it may decrease pain and help sores heal faster. Valacyclovir belongs to a class of medications known as antivirals.

This drug is used to treat outbreaks of herpes simplex on the skin (mouth, lips, genitals), outbreaks of shingles (herpes zoster), and chickenpox. This medication may also be used to help prevent outbreaks of herpes in patients with frequent outbreaks.