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The term herpes generally refers to a sexually-transmitted,
double-stranded DNA virus, called herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 2
(also known as human herpesvirus 2, or HHV2). This virus is closely
related to herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1 or HHV1), which is the
cause of common non sexually-transmitted cold sores.
These two viruses are among the eight
members of the herpes virus family to infect humans, causing a variety
of illnesses ranging from cold sores to brain infection (encephalitis)
to chickenpox to various cancers.
Acyclovir
Acyclovir is used to treat the symptoms of chickenpox, shingles, herpes
virus infections of the genitals, the skin, the brain, and mucous
membranes (lips and mouth), and widespread herpes virus infections in
newborns. Acyclovir is also used to prevent recurrent genital herpes
infections. Although Acyclovir will not cure herpes, it does help
relieve the pain and discomfort and helps the sores (if any) heal
faster.
Valtrex
Valtrex (valacyclovir hydrochloride) is the only once-a-day prescription
medication proven to suppress future genital herpes outbreaks. Valtrex
works by disrupting the process by which the herpes virus reproduces
itself and spreads to other cells in the body. There is no cure for
genital herpes, and no drug has been proven to prevent the spread of
herpes to others. Use Valtrex to suppress herpes outbreaks or to treat
them when they occur.
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