Herpes virus treatment, antiviral treatment for outbreaks and suppression

What is the herpes simplex virus?

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) exists in two main types. HSV-1 is most commonly associated with oral herpes — causing cold sores on and around the lips — and is present in the majority of adults. HSV-2 is most commonly associated with genital herpes, though either type can affect either location. Both types cause a similar pattern: an initial outbreak (which is sometimes the most severe), a dormant period in the nerve ganglia, and periodic reactivations throughout life.

Reactivations can be triggered by many things — illness, stress, fatigue, sun exposure, hormonal changes or a weakened immune system. Not everyone gets frequent or obvious outbreaks; some people experience very mild symptoms that they may not always recognise as herpes.

How is herpes treated?

Prescription antiviral medicines are highly effective. An episodic course — taken at the first sign of an outbreak — shortens the duration and severity of each episode significantly. For people with frequent outbreaks (typically six or more per year), a daily suppressive dose keeps the virus in check and reduces recurrence rates considerably. Both approaches are well established and safe for long-term use in the vast majority of people.

Which antiviral, and which strategy, suits you best depends on the frequency and nature of your outbreaks and your general health. The prescriber confirms this in the consultation. We do not list specific medicines on this public page.

Herpes and genital herpes — two separate consultations

This page and its consultation cover oral and non-genital herpes outbreaks. If your symptoms affect the genital area, please visit our genital herpes page for the appropriate clinical pathway — the consultation questions and clinical considerations are different for genital outbreaks. Both pathways use the same antiviral medicines, but the clinical assessment, partner-notification considerations and supporting information are tailored to the affected site.

Treating herpes with NewGen

NewGen Pharmacy is a GPhC-registered community pharmacy at 245 High Street, Stratford. Once your consultation is approved by a UK prescriber, your antiviral is dispensed the same working day and delivered to your door in plain, unbranded packaging. Many people find it helpful to keep a course at home so they can start treatment at the very first sign of an outbreak — we can support that approach through the consultation.

When to see your GP instead

See your GP if a herpes outbreak involves your eye or surrounding skin; if outbreaks are very frequent and not responding to suppressive treatment; if you are pregnant (herpes in pregnancy needs specialist management); or if you have a condition that significantly suppresses your immune system. If we cannot safely manage your situation online, we will refer you to the appropriate care. Call NHS 111 for any urgent concern.