Aciclovir tablets are antiviral medicine that reduce the severity and length of genital herpes outbreaks. They work by slowing viral replication so symptoms improve sooner. Early treatment helps with pain and speeds healing during both first and recurrent episodes.

Aciclovir often starts easing symptoms within a couple of days, although healing takes longer. Starting treatment at the first sign of tingling or soreness usually produces the best results. Pain and blistering tend to improve sooner when treatment begins early.

A typical outbreak dose is 400mg three times daily for five days, although prescribers may adjust this for first episodes or severe symptoms. Following the full course helps recovery and reduces viral shedding. Tablets should be taken with water and spaced evenly through the day.

Yes. Aciclovir can be taken daily as suppressive therapy if you experience frequent or distressing outbreaks. This approach reduces how often symptoms occur and lowers the risk of passing herpes to a partner. Your clinician will advise the right dose for long-term use.

Most people tolerate aciclovir well. Mild side effects like nausea, headache, diarrhoea or tiredness can occur but usually settle quickly. Serious effects are rare. Drinking plenty of water helps your kidneys process the medicine safely. Speak to a clinician if symptoms persist.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for the next one. Do not double up. Keeping doses evenly spaced helps maintain antiviral levels and supports quicker healing during an outbreak.

Aciclovir suits most adults, but your prescriber will check kidney health, other medicines and whether you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Some people may benefit more from valaciclovir due to simpler dosing or frequent outbreaks. A clinician will help choose the best option.

The earlier you start aciclovir, the better it works. Beginning treatment at the first signs of tingling, soreness or redness can prevent a full outbreak and shorten recovery time. If symptoms already blistered, it can still help, but results may be slower.

Yes. Many people use aciclovir daily for suppression when outbreaks are frequent or emotionally distressing. Long-term use is generally safe when monitored. It can reduce outbreaks significantly and help people feel more in control of symptoms.

Yes. Aciclovir reduces viral shedding, especially when taken daily, which lowers the risk of transmission. Condoms further reduce risk, and avoiding sex during symptoms remains important. Suppression therapy can be useful in new relationships or when a partner is uninfected.

Moderate alcohol is generally safe with aciclovir, but drinking heavily may worsen tiredness or dehydration, slowing recovery from an outbreak. Staying well hydrated helps aciclovir work effectively. If alcohol makes you feel unwell while taking it, limit consumption.

Aciclovir is often considered safe in pregnancy when needed, especially during a first outbreak or close to delivery. Your doctor or midwife will advise whether treatment is appropriate and may recommend suppression late in pregnancy to reduce risks.

Both treat genital herpes, but valaciclovir is absorbed more effectively, allowing less frequent dosing. Some people prefer valaciclovir for convenience, while others stay with aciclovir because it works well and is widely used. Your prescriber can help choose between them.

First outbreaks can be more intense because your immune system has not encountered the virus before. Aciclovir still helps but may take longer to relieve symptoms. Pain relief, salt baths and hydration can support recovery alongside antivirals.

Tablets are the main treatment for genital herpes. Topical aciclovir cream is designed for cold sores and offers little benefit for genital outbreaks. Tablets reach the affected nerves more effectively and are preferred for both first and recurrent episodes.