Herpes treatment: what actually helps fast and long-term

Herpes can feel scary the first time it appears, but treatment is straightforward for most people. This page explains the options that reduce pain, shorten outbreaks, and lower the chance of passing the virus to someone else. No fluff — just the steps that work and when to see a doctor.

How antiviral treatment works

The main way doctors treat herpes is with antiviral medicines. The common oral drugs — acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir — stop the virus from multiplying. Taken early in an outbreak, they shorten healing time and reduce pain. For frequent outbreaks, a daily low-dose (suppressive) regimen can cut recurrence rates and also lower the risk of transmitting the virus to sexual partners.

There are two typical approaches: episodic therapy and suppressive therapy. Episodic therapy means you take antivirals as soon as symptoms start. That works best when you begin within 48–72 hours of the first tingling or blister. Suppressive therapy is for people with frequent or severe recurrences, or who want to reduce the chance of passing the virus to a partner.

Topical creams exist but are less effective than oral pills for shortening outbreaks. Your clinician will help pick the right option based on how often outbreaks happen, your age, other medications, and pregnancy status.

Practical self-care and prevention tips

Simple self-care eases pain and speeds recovery. Keep lesions clean and dry, wear loose clothing, and avoid touching sores. Over-the-counter pain relievers, cool compresses, or short baths can reduce discomfort. If you touch a sore, wash hands immediately to avoid spreading the virus to other body parts or people.

To prevent transmission: avoid sexual contact during outbreaks and use condoms between outbreaks — they lower but don’t eliminate risk because herpes can shed from areas not covered by a condom. If one partner has genital herpes, daily suppressive therapy plus condom use gives the best protection short of abstinence. Pregnant people with active outbreaks must contact their provider; a vaginal delivery with active genital lesions can put the newborn at risk.

Testing options include swab PCR of a fresh sore (most accurate during an active outbreak) and blood tests that check for HSV antibodies (useful if you’ve never had symptoms but worry about exposure). If you’ve been exposed or have symptoms, talk to a clinician about testing and whether to start antivirals right away.

When to see a doctor: severe pain, fever, widespread sores, swallowing or eye symptoms, a weakened immune system, or if you’re pregnant. Also see a doctor if outbreaks become more frequent or harder to manage — a change in treatment can help.

Herpes is common and manageable. With the right meds, basic self-care, and a few prevention steps, most people keep outbreaks short and reduce transmission risk. If you have questions about treatment choices, testing, or pregnancy-related risks, reach out to your healthcare provider for personalized advice.