Effective prescription herpes treatment from the privacy of home

Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection. It’s spread through vaginal, anal or oral sex with an infected partner—not from contact with toilet seats, swimming pools or other objects. Sometimes, it can cause outbreaks of pain, itching and sores in the genital area. But not all people develop herpes sores or symptoms, making it impossible to know that you’re infected. With or without symptoms, you can still spread the condition.

The Centers for Disease Control estimates that almost 12% percent of Americans ages 14 to 49 have genital herpes caused by HSV-2—though the actual percentage is likely far higher. There are a growing number of cases caused by HSV-1, typically acquired during childhood.

Right now, there is no cure. But the right antiviral medication can help relieve outbreak symptoms, shorten their duration and reduce pain after they’ve healed. It can also reduce the chances you’ll pass the infection to a sexual partner.

People with this condition often experience multiple herpes outbreaks in a row. For those who develop symptoms, the first outbreak usually happens 2-4 weeks after exposure. It often presents as painful sores and blisters on the genitals that slowly heal within a few weeks. People who experience symptoms can have numerous outbreaks, but their symptoms often improve over time.

For most people, the first outbreak is the most severe. It usually lasts around 2-3 weeks. Recurring outbreaks are usually shorter and less severe and last around 10 days.

Dr. B offers the genital herpes medicine Valacyclovir and its brand equivalent, Valtrex, online. These antiviral medicines work by inhibiting the virus’s ability to replicate. They can be prescribed for short-term relief following an initial outbreak and as a long-term treatment to help reduce the risk of future repeat outbreaks. They are most effective when used at the first sign of an outbreak. But follow your medical provider’s prescribing instructions carefully.

Valacyclovir and Valtrex genital herpes pills are taken by mouth, usually once or twice a day in 1 gram or 500 milligram doses. Take these medications exactly as directed with plenty of water. (Right now, Dr. B does not offer a genital herpes cream treatment.)

Common side effects of Valacyclovir and Valtrex include nausea, headache, vomiting, abdominal pain and dizziness. These symptoms often lessen or go away as the body adjusts to the treatment. Talk to your doctor if your symptoms become more severe, you notice significant mood or behavior changes or you experience unexplained fever, bleeding or blood in your urine.

Dr. B provides convenient prescription treatment for genital herpes through our online medical service. First, complete a comprehensive online assessment sharing your health and medical history. Next, a board-certified doctor or medical provider will review your assessment—no video call required. If they determine that prescription medication is appropriate, they'll send the prescription to your chosen pharmacy. Genital herpes medications can be prescribed for a single outbreak or for ongoing condition management.

Right now, we don’t submit medical consultation claims to insurance companies. But you can use health insurance for any resulting prescriptions at your pharmacy.

We’ll send you a reminder for an online assessment when it’s time for your next refill.