Herpes which is a painful and problematic condition has no definite cure. However there are some medicines that can be taken as a part of the herpes treatment and this can greatly minimize the duration of the outbreaks along with their frequency. Some of these medicines may have some side effects.

Herpes treatment ordinarily includes some oral antiviral medications such as Famciclovir (Famvir), Valacyclovir (valtrex) and Acyclovir (Zovirax) These medicines can help in ensuring that the sores heal quickly and they also help in reducing the possibility and frequency of a relapse. These medicines need to be taken daily or as per the directions of the doctor and they can also help in reducing the chances of the patient infecting their partner with the virus.

As a part of the herpes treatment when the medicines are taken they basically work by interfering with the DNA synthesis and this stops the virus from undergoing further reproduction. These medicines are also effective and help in suppressing the HSV-1 along with the HSV-2 virus. Typically these medicines can be taken either continuously or episodically. Episodic intake means that the medicines should be taken when the patient has an outbreak or feels that a sore is appearing.

If the herpes treatment is started soon or within time then it can help in reducing the severity of the condition along with shortening the healing time. The treatment can be taken episodically if the patient is not sexually active and the outbreaks are infrequent. Also episodic treatment can be followed when genital herpes affects both the partners.

The suppressive therapy in herpes treatment involves taking the medication continuously so as to prevent any sores or fresh outbreak. When suppressive therapy is followed it may not stop the outbreak completely but it can help in reducing the frequency of the outbreak. Suppressive therapy is quite successful in individuals who have experienced around 6 or more outbreaks every year and when such a treatment is followed the frequency of outbreaks is reduced by as much as 70 to 80 percent.

Medication as a part of herpes treatment should also be taken where one partner has HSV-1 affecting the mouth and the other person has HSV-2 involving the genital area. The suppressing effect of the medication will prevent both individuals from exposing each other to the other herpes form.

Among the different over the counter medication L-lysine has had favorable reports from patients but studies have not supported the effectiveness of this medicine. Herpes treatment may also include ways to reduce the discomfort associated with the genital symptoms. Patients should wear cotton underwear along with loose clothing. Drying agent can be used and cornstarch can be sprinkled over the genitals. Tannic acid which is found within black tea can help in reducing the pain along with the itching. Ice packs used over lesions can help provide a soothing effect.

Researchers are also working on herpes vaccines as a part of the treatment. While the vaccine when released will not be able to cure a person already infected with herpes it may protect individuals who are not infected. Such an effective vaccine may be available in around 3 to 5 years. Exercise, good nutrition and rest are also important as a part of the treatment plan.