HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

Suggest Dosage For Acyclovir When Diagnosed With Genital Herpes

Posted on Wed, 26 Oct 2016

Question: I was diagnosed with genital herpes over 4 years ago. Not much "trouble" symptomatically since the awful first outbreak. I'm starting a new relationship and I've read everything about how NOT to spread it to him. Would it help additionally if I took my acyclovir daily instead of the once (or less)a year I've needed it to curb an outbreak? Could I take it daily for greater "insurance"?

Answered by Dr. Ronald Schubert (36 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
herpes

Detailed Answer:
Thank you for contacting HCM with your health care concerns

I am sorry to see that you had a herpes outbreak years ago. It is possible you may never get another but you can't be sure. Therefore, for all my herpes patients who don't want to spread the disease I recommend a daily suppressive dose of acyclovir. That will give you insurance that you will not spread the disease. Some studies have shown that even without symptoms that a person and still shed the virus and transmit it. So for your peace of mind I would highly recommend the daily dosing of acyclovir.

I hope I answered your question. Please contact us again if you have any additional questions

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Ronald Schubert (8 minutes later)

Thank you. I have no problem taking the acyclovir daily if that will help stop the spread. Is there a daily maintenance dosage you recommend that I could in turn discuss with my family doctor?

Answered by Dr. Ronald Schubert (8 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
acyclovir suppression dosing

Detailed Answer:
The dosing for suppression of herpes is 400-800mg twice daily for acyclovir and 500-1000mg daily of Valacyclovir.

I hope this helps

Note: Consult a Sexual Diseases Specialist online for further follow up- Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar