Dr Weightmans can provide antiviral medications which can effectively manage genital herpes. It works by interfering with viral DNA synthesis, preventing the virus from replicating. These medications can be prescribed to treat the outbreaks when they occur, reduce the outbreak frequency and viral shedding and reduce transmission risk to partners.

Like all medicines, genital herpes treatments may cause side effects, though not everyone gets them.

Common side effects (Aciclovir, Famciclovir, Valaciclovir)

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Rash or itching

Other possible effects:

• Aciclovir: stomach pain, tiredness, fever
• Famciclovir: stomach pain, abnormal liver tests, skin sensitivity to light
• Valaciclovir: same as Famciclovir

Serious side effects (call 999 / go to A&E)

• Rash, hives, or swelling (face, lips, tongue)
• Breathing difficulty or wheezing
• Collapse

Managing mild side effects at home

• Use over-the-counter painkillers for headaches or stomach pain
• Drink fluids to avoid dehydration
• Rest until symptoms pass
• Eat small, frequent meals and avoid spicy foods if nauseous

Yes, genital herpes may clear up on its own, but the symptoms are usually more severe the first time you get an outbreak. So, treatment can help to manage them effectively and reduce the length of the outbreak.

Who should be cautious with genital herpes treatment

• Not suitable if allergic to ingredients or if you developed rash with fever, swollen lymph nodes, high liver enzymes, or eosinophilia after previous use.

• Tell your doctor if you have kidney problems, liver problems, or a weakened immune system.

Genital herpes and pregnancy

• If you’ve had herpes before pregnancy, you usually can deliver vaginally and have a healthy baby (antibodies provide protection).

• If your first outbreak occurs in pregnancy or you have an outbreak at delivery, there’s a risk of neonatal herpes (serious). Tell your doctor or midwife immediately if you have symptoms before or during labour.

Genital herpes and HIV

• More severe and frequent outbreaks in people with HIV.

• Genital herpes sores increase the risk of HIV transmission.

• If HIV positive, you’ll be referred to a genitourinary clinic and may need higher or longer-dose treatment.

We deliver throughout the UK and we only use a Express next day delivery option.

Yes, all orders come in plain packaging with no branding or contents labels, which would reveal the contents of the package.

Yes, we are registered with the GPhC, ensuring we comply to all relevant regulations and guidelines and providing high standards of safety and care.

You can email us on: [email protected] or by going on the contact us page, or use the messaging feature in your account to contact our support staff.