Genital Herpes:
Information for adults

Most herpes simplex infections are easy for physicians to diagnose. On occasion, however, a swab from the infected skin may be sent to the laboratory for viral culture, which takes a few days to grow. Blood tests may also be performed.

Untreated herpes simplex virus infections will go away on their own, but medications can reduce the symptoms and shorten the duration of outbreaks. There is no cure for herpes simplex virus infection.

Treatment for primary herpes simplex virus infection includes the following oral antiviral medications:

• Acyclovir pills
• Valacyclovir pills
• Famciclovir pills

These medications are usually taken for 7–14 days.

More severe primary herpes simplex virus infections may require additional medications:

• Oral antibiotic pills if the areas are also infected with bacteria
• Oral antifungal pills if the areas are also infected with yeast
• Topical anesthetic cream, such as lidocaine ointment, to reduce pain

Treatment for recurrent herpes simplex virus infections includes the same oral antiviral medications used for primary infection:

• Acyclovir pills
• Valacyclovir pills
• Famciclovir pills

People who experience early signs of outbreak (prodromes) before recurrent infections may benefit from episodic treatment, by starting to take medication after the onset of tingling and burning but before the appearance of blisters and sores.

Other people have recurrent infections that are frequent enough or severe enough to justify suppressive therapy, where medications are taken every day in order to decrease the frequency and severity of attacks.