Herpes Medication: What Works and How to Get It Cheap

If you’ve just found out you have genital or oral herpes, the first thing on your mind is probably how to stop the sores and feel better fast. The good news is there are three main prescription drugs that doctors use all over the world: acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir. They all do the same job – they stop the virus from multiplying – but they differ in how often you take them and how much they cost.

Common Herpes Meds

Acyclovir is the oldest and cheapest option. Most doctors start with 200 mg five times a day for a short outbreak, or 400 mg twice a day for suppressive therapy. Valacyclovir is a newer version that the body turns into acyclovir, so you need fewer pills – usually 1 g once daily for suppression. Famciclovir works a bit differently but ends up doing the same thing; a typical dose is 250 mg three times daily during an outbreak.

All three drugs have similar side‑effects: mild headache, nausea, or a little rash. Serious problems are rare, but if you get severe stomach pain, trouble breathing, or a high fever, stop the med and call a doctor right away. Most people can take these medicines with food and water, which makes them easy to fit into daily life.

Saving Money on Treatment

Prescription costs can add up, especially if you need long‑term suppressive therapy. One simple way to cut the price is to shop at reputable online pharmacies that ship from Canada. Canadian pharmacies often sell the same brand‑name or generic drugs at a fraction of US prices because of lower overhead.

Before you click “buy,” make sure the pharmacy is licensed, requires a valid prescription, and shows a clear address and phone number. Look for reviews that mention fast delivery and genuine medication. If the site seems too good to be true – like offering a 90 % discount with no prescription – walk away.

Another tip is to ask your doctor for a 90‑day supply instead of a month‑by‑month refill. Most insurers will cover the larger script, and you’ll save on shipping if you order online. Some pharmacies also offer subscription plans that automatically send you the next bottle before you run out, often with extra discounts.

Remember to keep a copy of your prescription handy. If the online pharmacy asks for it, you can upload a scanned PDF or a clear photo. Most sites will verify it with your doctor’s office within a day, and then ship the meds in discreet packaging.

Finally, don’t forget to track your symptoms. If you notice more frequent breakouts, longer healing times, or side‑effects that won’t go away, talk to your doctor. They might adjust the dose, switch to a different med, or add another treatment like a topical cream.

Bottom line: the three main herpes meds work well for most people, and you don’t have to break the bank to get them. Choose a licensed Canadian pharmacy, keep your prescription up to date, and watch for any side‑effects. With the right plan, you’ll keep outbreaks under control without emptying your wallet.