Genital herpes treatment (Aciclovir)

Start taking Aciclovir as soon as you feel an outbreak starting.

Take 1 tablet 3 times a day for 5 days. Complete the course of treatment.

If you haven't been diagnosed with herpes previously but think you may have herpes, use our photo assessment service.

A small number of people will experience some side effects when taking Aciclovir, however these are generally mild and should pass quickly. These may include headache, dizziness, nausea, diarrhoea or tiredness.

For full information on side effects and correct use, see the patient information leaflet. If any side effects concern you, contact us via your Patient Record.

This treatment is for acute outbreaks of genital herpes only.

If taken within 5 days of the start of an outbreak, Aciclovir should shorten your outbreak by 1-2 days and make the symptoms less severe. It might even prevent the outbreak if taken early enough.

There is no cure for herpes, so it may return. This treatment does not affect how often you get future outbreaks, or how severe they will be. However, you can minimise the inconvenience and discomfort of the outbreaks by considering herpes suppression treatment.

Aciclovir is an antiviral that works to prevent the herpes virus from multiplying. This reduces the severity of the infection.