Antivirals / Valtrex

[WSTCHSTRHIKING]

Hi. A question on antivirals. I am 54 male. I am re-entering  the dating scene. I have HSV1. I have no outbreaks that look like herpes, but I tested positive. I get canker sores which I know are different. My doctor would only prescribe Valtrex for herpes outbreaks, not as a daily for herpes. (I have HPV also which I know is completely different than HSV.) So I am always on the lookout for any wart or lesion.  

My question is since I never had and don’t get any visual HSV1 outbreaks, is it advisable or not to take daily antiviral like Valtrex? I feel like going back into the dating scene it might be beneficial? 

[mr_hopp]

Welcome back, @WSTCHSTRHIKING

Great question, and good on you for being proactive as you re-enter the dating world. Let’s break this down.

First, HSV-1 is super common, and around 80% of people who have any form of herpes don't know they have it, either due to ignorance/denial or because they don’t get noticeable symptoms (about 20% of people who have herpes never get any symptoms). The fact that you’re aware of your status is a huge plus — you’re already a step ahead in being thoughtful and considerate with partners. In other words, being a part of the 20% of people of people with herpes who KNOW they have herpes makes you more safe than being ignorant. 

When it comes to antivirals like Valtrex, the main goal for daily suppressive therapy is to reduce viral shedding and lower the risk of transmission. Even if you don’t have visible outbreaks, HSV-1 can still shed asymptomatically. Taking a daily antiviral can cut the risk of passing it on to a partner by about 50%. 

So, is it advisable? If you’re planning on being sexually active and want to reduce the risk further, daily suppressive therapy could definitely be beneficial. It’s worth having another conversation with your doctor about prescribing it for this purpose. Let them know it’s for peace of mind and lowering the chance of transmission, even without visible outbreaks. It's called asymptomatic viral shedding. 

And remember, disclosure and communication go hand in hand with any protective measures. (Check out the free ebook and handouts for how to disclose in an empowered way.) Antivirals are just one tool in the toolbox — open and honest conversations with potential partners are the first layer to keeping a partner safe and is what really build trust.

You’ve got this! Let me know how it goes. 😊

[WSTCHSTRHIKING]

Thanks for your prompt reply!! You really give your time to all the questions on your site. You are a voice of reason for many. I will ask my doctor again. I might need to get a second opinion as she seemed firm on her answer. Mainly because I went in with a difference concern, with HSV and Alzheimer’s link, and Acyclovir was the recommended antiviral for prevention. I appreciate your time and knowledge