For treatment of the herpes simplex virus, physicians will usually prescribe one of the three currently available oral antiviral medications approved by the FDA for treatment of the herpes virus: Acyclovir (Zovirax^®), valacyclovir (Valtrex^®) and famciclovir (Famvir^®) They all work in a similar manner by disrupting the ability of the virus to multiply, thus helping to relieve the pain and discomfort associated with this virus as well as helping the sores to heal faster.

Zovirax^® – GlaxoSmithKline

Acyclovir is the oldest antiviral medication available for the treatment of herpes.  Acyclovir is used to treat the symptoms of chickenpox, shingles, herpes virus infections of the genitals (sex organs), the skin, the brain, and mucous membranes (lips and mouth).  It is available in an oral formulation as well as a topical  ointment.

Valtrex^® –GlaxoSmithKline

Valacyclovir is used to treat the symptoms of herpes zoster (also known as shingles), a herpes virus infection of the skin; it is also used to treat and prevent genital herpes infections. In your body, valacyclovir becomes the anti-herpes medicine, acyclovir. Because this medication delivers acyclovir more efficiently, this product has the advantage of a less frequent dosing schedule. 

Famvir^® –Novartis Pharmaceuticals

Famciclovir is also used to treat the symptoms of herpes zoster as well as suppress the virus that causes cold sores and genital herpes. Like valacyclovir, it is well absorbed, persists for a longer time in the body, and can be taken less frequently than acyclovir.