At the moment there is no cure for herpes

Antiviral medications

At the moment there is no cure for herpes. Anti-viral medicines are available (also known as suppressive antiviral therapy) which cannot take away the disease but can help prevent future outbreaks and minimise the symptoms. They also reduce the risk of infecting other people. Antivirals used are:

Acyclovir (brand name Zovirax)
Famciclovir (brand name Famvir)
Valacyclovir (brand name Valtrex)

All of these have the same method of working - they hinder the virus’s ability to replicate itself. They all require a prescription.

The immune system is important in responding to HSV - if a person’s immune system is strong, they will have fewer outbreaks, and the outbreaks they do have will be less severe than someone whose immune system is compromised in some way.

Alternative Treatments

There are many products on the market which aim to boost the immune system to combat HSV.

Vitamins can help increase the efficiency of the immune system and help it to respond better at fighting infection. It is thought that zinc may be of particular benefit. Daily multivitamins may help. (be sure to consult your doctor before taking supplements of any kind while pregnant)

Other supplements with anecdotal evidence to say they maybe of help are: monolaurin, vitamin A, vitamin B12, garlic and Echinacea.

Lysine, a supplement, has been found to be helpful in reducing the symptoms of herpes.

Some people say that if you place ice in contact with an emerging cold sore for 5 - 10 minutes throughout the day it might help shorten the duration of the outbreak or prevent the sore from developing further.

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