Which is better for genital herpes acyclovir or valacyclovir?
It’s effective against all forms of the herpes virus, with different doses used to treat outbreaks of oral herpes, genital herpes and shingles. The top reason people use valacyclovir instead of acyclovir for treating herpes is its higher level of oral bioavailability.
Does valacyclovir work better than acyclovir?
Official Answer. Valacyclovir (Valtrex) and acyclovir (Zovirax) are antiviral drugs that work by interfering with viral DNA replication. Both drugs target the same viruses but valacyclovir provides longer duration of action, therefore, doses can be taken fewer times every day – this is the only real advantage.
What is the best antiviral for genital herpes?
There are three major drugs commonly used to treat genital herpes symptoms: acyclovir (Zovirax), famciclovir (Famvir), and valacyclovir (Valtrex). These are all taken in pill form. Severe cases may be treated with the intravenous (IV) drug acyclovir.
Why would patients with genital herpes receive acyclovir?
Acyclovir is used to decrease pain and speed the healing of sores or blisters in people who have varicella (chickenpox), herpes zoster (shingles; a rash that can occur in people who have had chickenpox in the past), and first-time or repeat outbreaks of genital herpes (a herpes virus infection that causes sores to form …
Why does valacyclovir has a longer duration than acyclovir?
Valacyclovir is the prodrug of acyclovir. During first-pass metabolism of the oral dosage form, valacyclovir is converted to acyclovir, allowing more active ingredients to be absorbed from oral administration and also allowing more time between doses.
Can I take valacyclovir and acyclovir at the same time?
No interactions were found between acyclovir and valacyclovir. This does not necessarily mean no interactions exist. Always consult your healthcare provider.
Is acyclovir same as Valtrex?
(Acyclovir itself is available as a topical, oral, and intravenous medication.) Valtrex thus is active against the same viruses as acyclovir, but Valtrex has a longer duration of action than acyclovir and can be taken fewer times each day.
Can I take acyclovir and valacyclovir at the same time?
Does herpes become resistant to acyclovir?
Only three cases of clinical resistance of HSV to acyclovir have been reported. However, the incidence in immunocompromised patients, particularly those with AIDS and those who have had bone marrow transplants, is increasing.
Can I use acyclovir cream on genital herpes?
It’s important to note that acyclovir ointment can be used to treat genital herpes but doesn’t typically reduce the length or severity of outbreaks. You should not apply acyclovir cream to the genitals because it may irritate these parts of your body.