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Cold Sores & Genital Herpes Treatment

You can get effective and affordable prescription herpes treatments online without seeing a doctor in person.
  • Free online consultation
  • FDA-approved Cold Sores & Genital Herpes medications
  • Treatments for as little as $27 per month
  • US-licensed healthcare providers
  • Fast, free, discreet shipping
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About Herpes

The herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a common infection that causes itchy and painful blisters or ulcers.

There are two types of herpes virus: HSV-1 and HSV-2. Type 1 mostly spreads by oral contact, and infects in or around the mouth. HSV-1 is common, and most adults are infected with it. Type 2 refers to genital herpes and is contracted sexually.

What is genital herpes?

Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted viral infection. Genital herpes may cause symptoms like itching, burning, or tingling in the genital area. This is often followed by small, painful blisters or sores. These sores can be uncomfortable and can take some time to heal. After the sores go away, the virus can remain in the body and cause future outbreaks.

It is possible for symptoms to be mild and go unnoticed. It's important to get tested if you're sexually active – especially if you've had multiple partners or unprotected sex.

What are cold sores?

Cold sores (or oral herpes) are small, fluid-filled blisters that usually show up on or around the lips. They're caused by a virus called herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). This virus is highly contagious and can be passed from person to person through direct contact – like kissing, sharing utensils, or even touching the sore and then touching another part of your body.

After an HSV-1 infection, the virus can stay dormant (inactive) in the body for a long time. Cold sores often appear when the virus becomes active again due to factors like stress, illness, hormonal changes, or exposure to sunlight.

Cold sores can be uncomfortable and sometimes even painful. They typically go through stages: first, you might feel a tingling or itching sensation, then small blisters form, which can burst and scab over. Eventually, the scab falls off, and the sore heals. This whole process can take around seven to 10 days.

Can herpes be treated?

It's important to know that both genital and oral herpes are manageable conditions. While there's no cure, antiviral medications can help reduce the severity and frequency of outbreaks. Using condoms and practicing safe sex can also reduce the risk of spreading the virus to sexual partners.

Rex MD offers antiviral suppressive therapy treatments with valacyclovir. This medication is FDA-approved and works to stop the herpes simplex virus from building DNA and replicating itself. This reduces the severity of cold sores and flare-ups, as well as the ability for the virus to transfer between hosts.

Important safety information

Explore Our Genital Herpes and Cold Sore Medications

For Genital Herpes
Generic valtrex (valacyclovir)
  • Starting at $27 per month
Important safety information

Genital Herpes and Cold Sore FAQs

What are the chances of getting genital herpes from an infected partner, if they are taking medication?

When an infected partner is on medication such as valacyclovir to manage herpes, the risk of transmitting the virus to a non-infected partner is significantly reduced.

Studies have shown that daily antiviral therapy can lower the transmission rate by around 50%. However, it's important to note that there is still a small risk of transmission, even with medication.

The best way to reduce the risk further is by using condoms consistently and correctly, and by maintaining open communication with your partner about sexual health and any potential risks.

How long do herpes outbreaks last with medication?

On average, with the use of antiviral medication, genital herpes and cold sore outbreaks typically last about seven to 10 days. But outbreaks can vary from person to person.

Medications like valacyclovir can help shorten the duration and reduce the severity of outbreaks. Starting medication as soon as you notice symptoms or even taking it regularly as a preventive measure can help manage outbreaks more effectively. Be sure to consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance and to discuss the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific situation.

Can you treat herpes on your own?

While there are over-the-counter creams and ointments that are advertised to treat herpes symptoms, it's generally recommended to seek medical guidance and treatment for herpes. Self-treatment may not be as effective and could potentially lead to complications or prolonged discomfort.

If you suspect you have herpes or experience symptoms, it's best to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment options. During an online consultation with Rex MD, a licensed medical professional can provide you with accurate information and guidance tailored to your specific situation.

Can a cold sore heal in 24 hours?

No, a cold sore typically cannot heal completely in 24 hours. Cold sores usually go through several stages, including tingling or itching, blister formation, blister rupture, scabbing, and eventual healing.

This process generally takes about seven to 10 days, with the scab falling off as the sore heals. While certain treatments might help speed up the healing process or alleviate symptoms, a full healing of a cold sore within 24 hours is not typical.

Does hydrogen peroxide help with cold sores?

Hydrogen peroxide can cause further irritation and damage to the delicate skin around the cold sore, potentially making the situation worse. It's important to treat cold sores with methods that are specifically designed to target the herpes virus and promote healing.

Antiviral medications prescribed by a healthcare professional – such as oral medications like valacyclovir – are more effective in managing cold sores and reducing their duration and symptoms.

Does rubbing alcohol get rid of cold sores?

Rubbing alcohol is not a recommended treatment for cold sores. Using rubbing alcohol on a cold sore can cause irritation and dryness – which could make the sore more uncomfortable. Additionally, applying alcohol to an open sore can be painful.

For effective management of cold sores, it's best to consult a healthcare professional.

Steps for Getting Treatment

1. Free online consultation

Answering questions about your symptoms and health history.

2. Personalized review

If appropriate a licensed physician will prescribe a treatment plan that meets your needs.

3. Fast, discreet shipping

Your medication will ship out in discreet packaging within two days.

4. Ongoing support

Contact our team anytime to discuss your treatment and make adjustments, if needed.

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Michael G.

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Ben T.

“I can’t think of anything else that could be better, this system is perfect.“

Dan D.

“Actually I was skeptical at first. After a painless questionnaire everything worked out great.”

Scott S.

“Everything was perfect. My prescription showed up on time the doctor was easy to talk to - I couldn’t be happier with the product.”

Alan S.

“Keep making your customer service awesome for all customers.”

Dave P.

“Was actually easy for a non computer savvy old man.”

John B.

“Love your service and product. Changed everything for the better. THANK YOU !!!”

Chris W.

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Billy I.

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Do you ever experience genital herpes outbreaks that cause discomfort or interfere with your sex life?

Important Safety Information

Herpes
Last Updated: Aug 15, 2024
  1. Valacyclovir
 

What are valacyclovir tablets?

  • Valacyclovir tablets are a prescription antiviral medicine. Valacyclovir tablets lower the ability of herpes viruses to multiply in your body.

Valacyclovir tablets are used in adults:

  • to treat cold sores (also called fever blisters or herpes labialis)
  • to treat shingles (also called herpes zoster)
  • to treat or control genital herpes outbreaks in adults with normal immune systems
  • to control genital herpes outbreaks in adults infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) with CD4 + cell count greater than 100 cells/mm3
  • with safer sex practices to lower the chances of spreading genital herpes to uninfected partners. Even with safer sex practices, it is still possible to spread genital herpes. Valacyclovir tablets used daily with the following safer sex practices can lower the chances of passing genital herpes to your partner.
  • Do not have sexual contact with your partner when you have any symptom or outbreak of genital herpes.
  • Use a condom made of latex or polyurethane whenever you have sexual contact.

What are cold sores, chickenpox, shingles and genital herpes?

  • Cold sores are caused by a herpes virus that may be spread by kissing or other physical contact with the infected area of the skin. They are small, painful ulcers that you get in or around your mouth. It is not known if valacyclovir tablets can stop the spread of cold sores to others.

Chickenpox is caused by a herpes virus called Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV). It causes an itchy rash of multiple small, red bumps that look like pimples or insect bites usually appearing first on the abdomen or back and face. It can spread to almost everywhere else on the body and may be accompanied by flu-like symptoms.

Shingles is caused by the same herpes virus that causes chickenpox. It causes small, painful blisters to appear on your skin. Shingles occurs in people who have already had chickenpox. Shingles can be spread to people who have not had chickenpox or the chickenpox vaccine by contact with the infected areas of the skin. It is not known if valacyclovir tablets can stop the spread of shingles to others.

Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease. It causes small, painful blisters on your genital area. You can spread genital herpes to others, even when you have no symptoms. If you are sexually active, you can still pass herpes to your partner, even if you are taking valacyclovir tablets. Valacyclovir tablets, taken every day as prescribed and used with the following safer sex practices, can lower the chances of passing genital herpes to your partner.

Do not have sexual contact with your partner when you have any symptom or outbreak of genital herpes.

Use a condom made of latex or polyurethane whenever you have sexual contact. Ask your healthcare provider for more information about safer sex practices.

Who should not take valacyclovir tablets?

  • Do not take valacyclovir tablets if you are allergic to any of its ingredients or to acyclovir. The active ingredient is valacyclovir.

Before taking valacyclovir tablets, tell your healthcare provider about all your medical conditions, including:

  • if you have had a bone marrow transplant or kidney transplant, or if you have advanced HIV disease or “AIDS”. Patients with these conditions may have a higher chance for getting a blood disorder called thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura/hemolytic uremic syndrome (TTP/HUS). TTP/HUS can result in death.
  • if you have kidney problems. Patients with kidney problems may have a higher chance of side effects or more kidney problems with valacyclovir tablets. Your healthcare provider may give you a lower dose of valacyclovir tablets.
  • if you are 65 years of age or older. Elderly patients have a higher chance of certain side effects. Also, elderly patients are more likely to have kidney problems. Your healthcare provider may give you a lower dose of valacyclovir tablets.
  • if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Talk with your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of taking prescription drugs (including valacyclovir tablets) during pregnancy.
  • if you are breast-feeding. Valacyclovir tablets may pass into your milk and it may harm your baby. Talk with your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby if you are taking valacyclovir tablets.
  • about all the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins and herbal supplements. Valacyclovir tablets may affect other medicines, and other medicines may affect valacyclovir tablets. It is a good idea to keep a complete list of all the medicines you take. Show this list to your healthcare provider and pharmacist any time you get a new medicine.
  • Withholding or providing inaccurate information about your health and medical history in order to obtain treatment may result in harm, including, in some cases, death.

How should I take valacyclovir tablets?

  • Take valacyclovir tablets exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Your dose of valacyclovir tablets and length of treatment will depend on the type of herpes infection that you have and any other medical problems that you have.
  • Do not stop valacyclovir tablets or change your treatment without talking to your healthcare provider.
  • Valacyclovir tablets can be taken with or without food.If you are taking valacyclovir tablets to treat cold sores, chickenpox, shingles or genital herpes, you should start treatment as soon as possible after your symptoms start. Valacyclovir tablets may not help you if you start treatment too late.
  • If you miss a dose of valacyclovir tablets, take it as soon as you remember and then take your next dose at its regular time. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, do not take the missed dose. Wait and take the next dose at the regular time.
  • Do not take more than the prescribed number of valacyclovir tablets each day. Call your healthcare provider right away if you take too much valacyclovir tablets.
  • What are the possible side effects of valacyclovir tablets?
  • Kidney failure and nervous system problems are not common, but can be serious in some patients taking valacyclovir tablets. Nervous system problems include aggressive behavior, unsteady movement, shaky movements, confusion, speech problems, hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are really not there), seizures and coma.

Kidney failure and nervous system problems have happened in patients who already have kidney disease and in elderly patients whose kidneys do not work well due to age. Always tell your healthcare provider if you have kidney problems before taking valacyclovir tablets.

Call your doctor right away if you get a nervous system problem while you are taking valacyclovir tablets.

Common side effects of valacyclovir tablets in adults include headache, nausea, stomach pain, vomiting and dizziness. Side effects in HIV-infected adults include headache, tiredness and rash. These side effects usually are mild and do not cause patients to stop taking valacyclovir tablets.

Other less common side effects in adults include painful periods in women, joint pain, depression, low blood cell counts and changes in tests that measure how well the liver and kidneys work. The most common side effect seen in children < 18 years of age was headache.

Talk to your healthcare provider if you develop any side effects that concern you. These are not all the side effects of valacyclovir tablets. For more information ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Keep valacyclovir tablets and all medicines out of the reach of children. General information about valacyclovir tablets Medicines are sometimes prescribed for conditions that are not mentioned in patient information leaflets. Do not use valacyclovir tablets for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give valacyclovir tablets to other people, even if they have the same symptoms you have. It may harm them.

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate medical attention.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription products to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Please see the full Prescribing Information for complete safety information.

https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2008/020487s014lbl.pdf