Acyclovir is used to treat the symptoms of chickenpox, shingles, herpes virus infections of the genitals, the skin, the brain, and mucous membranes (lips and mouth), and widespread herpes virus infections in newborns. Acyclovir is also used to prevent recurrent genital herpes infections. Although Acyclovir will not cure herpes, it does help relieve the pain and discomfort and helps the sores (if any) heal faster.

Valtrex (valacyclovir hydrochloride) is the only once-a-day prescription medication proven to suppress future genital herpes outbreaks. Valtrex works by disrupting the process by which the herpes virus reproduces itself and spreads to other cells in the body. There is no cure for genital herpes, and no drug has been proven to prevent the spread of herpes to others. Use Valtrex to suppress herpes outbreaks or to treat them when they occur.

Famvir (famicyclovir) is an antiviral drug. Famvir slows the growth and spread of the herpes virus so that the body can fight off the infection. Famvir shortens the length of time that herpes symptoms are present. Famvir is used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses including shingles, genital herpes, and cold sores (in people with HIV).

Zovirax is a prescription cream medication that is effective in the initial phases of genital herpes and in the treatment of mouth ulcers and lip blisters caused by the herpes simplex virus.