To use antivirals or not?

[Arcook]

My partner was just diagnosed simplex 2 and the doctor asked if he wanted to start on the antiviral. What are the pros and cons? 

 

[forgivenessandpeace]

Acyclovir gives me headaches so I don't take it.

[mr_hopp]

Hi @Arcook and welcome! Here's an article that should be helpful to read:

https://herpeslife.com/herpes-medication/

[Anonymous88]

I am on suppressive therapy after two very painful outbreaks and its the best thing ever for me. Gave me hope that apart from taking two tablets daily and disclosing that I can continue to carry on living the life I had prior. I am a complete worrier so preventing outbreaks has calmed me so much and I have never had any side effects.

[missanonymous]

I take valtrex and it makes me dizzy and gives me nausea. 

[justbri.]

It gave me stomach cramps, indigestion, nausea, and fatigue. I was diagnosed with GHSV1 and only had one outbreak. Stopped the pills after three days and felt loads better. No OBs since the first, but of course GHSV2 is sometimes more severe than type 1. I would say give it a try and he can always stop according to how he feels/experiences OBs.