Effective prescription treatment for herpes from the privacy of home

Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection that can result in outbreaks of pain, itching and sores in the genital area. The infection is spread through vaginal, anal or oral sex with an infected partner. When there are no obvious sores or symptoms on the skin, it’s possible to not know you’re infected—but the condition can still be spread. Genital herpes can’t be contracted from toilet seats, swimming pools or by touching objects.

Genital herpes is caused by two viruses: herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). HSV-2 causes most cases of genital herpes, while HSV-1 more often results in oral herpes, also known as cold sores.

The Centers for Disease Control estimates that 11.9% percent of Americans ages 14 to 49 have genital herpes caused by HSV-2. The actual incidence is likely far higher. There are a growing number of cases caused by HSV-1, typically acquired during childhood.

For those who show symptoms of genital herpes, the first outbreak usually occurs 2-4 weeks after exposure and presents as painful sores and blisters on the genitals that slowly heal within a couple of weeks. People who experience symptoms can have numerous outbreaks, but their symptoms often lessen over time.

There is currently no cure for genital herpes. However, the right antiviral medications can help relieve outbreak symptoms, shorten their duration, reduce pain levels after healing and reduce the chances of passing the infection to your partner.

Dr. B offers Valacyclovir (and its brand equivalent Valtrex), an antiviral tablet that works by inhibiting the virus’s ability to replicate. The medication is prescribed in higher doses for short-term relief following an initial genital herpes outbreak and as a long-term treatment to reduce the risk of future outbreaks. It is most effective when used at the first sign of an outbreak. Follow your medical provider’s prescribing instructions carefully.

Valacyclovir / Valtrex is a tablet taken by mouth, usually once or twice a day in 1 gram or 500 milligram doses. The medication should be taken exactly as directed with plenty of water.

Common side effects of Valacyclovir include: nausea, headache, vomiting, abdominal pain and dizziness. These symptoms often subside 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. The first step is a comprehensive online assessment of your health and medical history. Next, a board-certified doctor or medical provider will review your assessment--no video call required. If the provider determines that a prescription is right for you, you can choose from one of four different options or ask the provider to recommend an effective genital herpes medication for you. The prescription is then sent to the pharmacy of your choice for pick-up. Genital herpes medications can be prescribed for a single outbreak or for ongoing condition management.

At this time we don’t submit medical consultation claims to insurance companies, but you can use 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.