Herpes is an infectious viral disease that can affect the mouth, lips, and anal and genital regions, says MedlinePlus. It states that oral herpes affects the moist mucus regions of the mouth, while genital herpes is sexually transmitted. Sometimes, people do not exhibit any symptoms, but those who do develop painful blisters or sores. People can suffer from periodic herpes flareup. Fortunately, there are medications available to reduce the frequency of these flareups.
Valacyclovir
Valacyclovir is an antiviral medication specifically used to treat genital herpes and herpes zoster (shingles), says MedlinePlus. Valacyclovir's common effects include vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, loose stools and a headache. Inform a doctor when valacyclovir's effects do not disappear within six to seven days.
Valacyclovir's serious effects include itching, confusion, a rash, fever, blood in the urine and yellowing of the skin or eyes. Phone a doctor immediately when this drug causes these effects. Valacyclovir dosage may be altered or it may be discontinued.
Valacyclovir is a tablet taken every eight hours for up to five days.
Penciclovir
Peniciclovir is also an antiviral drug that prevents herpes from spreading throughout the body. Drugs.com says that penciclovir prevents cold sores from flaring up.
Its common effects include a headache, an unpleasant taste in the mouth and pain, burning or itching where penciclovir was applied. Contact a doctor when penciclovir's common effects last for more than five to seven days.
Peniciclovir can also lead to a potentially life-threatening reaction such as hives, trouble breathing, chest tightness, a rash and swelling of the tongue, face or lips. Call 911 if these symptoms occur.
Peniciclovir is available as a topical medication (applied directly on the lesion) and should be used as instructed.
Famciclovir
Famciclovir also delays and prevents the growth of the herpes virus. Specifically, famiclovir is used to treat herpes, genital herpes, cold sores, shingles and chicken pox.
Drugs.com says that famciclovir's serious effects include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, dizziness, sleepiness, confusion and itching. Famciclovir can also cause a skin rash, fatigue and a headache. Call a physician immediately when famciclovir causes these effects.
Famiciclovir can also lead to a potentially fatal allergic reaction. Signs of an allergic reaction include trouble breathing, hives and swelling of the tongue, face or throat. Get medical help immediately.
Drugs.com says that a change in famciclovir's dose may be necessary if people suffer from kidney disease, a weakened immune system, lactase deficiency (lactose intolerance), galactose intolerance or glucose-galactose malabsorption.
Famiciclovir is typically taken two times a day or as a doctor prescribes.
