Description
Aciclovir tablets are an antiviral medication which reduces herpes virus growth and spread, by blocking the DNA replication of the virus. A 5-day course of aciclovir 400mg tablets or a 2-day course of aciclovir 800mg tablets will typically reduce the duration of genital herpes sores by one or two days and will also reduce severity of symptoms and infectivity. If taken early enough aciclovir may prevent sores from breaking open.
Taking aciclovir every day can suppress herpes outbreaks. Aciclovir is also used to treat other herpes family virus infections, particularly chickenpox, shingles, cold sores, especially in immunocompromised patients.
Not every sore in the genital area is caused by herpes simplex. If you have a genital sore or ulcer it is important to see a doctor or sexual health clinic to have a diagnosis and to be tested for other sexually transmitted infections.
For further information see NHS – Genital herpes.
