Acyclovir v. Valacyclovir Side Effects

[whitelilyrose]

Hi All, this is my first post.  I had been taking acyclovir successfully for the past six years, for outbreaks about two to three times per year.  With all the stress in my life these days, my outbreaks have become much more frequent and for whatever reason, I am now having some unpleasant side effects from acyclovir, like headache (tolerable), weird taste in my mouth and excess salivation, and a heavy feeling in my legs and arms.  My doctor switched me to valacyclovir, and frankly I'm afraid to take it because I've read that it's essentially the same med and is converted to acyclovir in the body, and also lasts longer in the body.  I don't want the same side effects!  And if I can't take either drug, what are my options???  Has anyone experienced these side effects with one drug or the other, and do any other alternatives work for you that I can try???

Thank you!  Lily

[whitelilyrose]

Hi Life, thanks for your response. I only take acyclovir when I have an outbreak, not every day. Definitely HSV 2 and on my backside, always right cheek. The acyclovir helps knock it out pretty quickly but like I said, the side effects that just started aren't good. Don't know if I should try the valacyclovir. Does this help clarify? Thanks!

[Life360_Dave]

Hi Lily, having this many outbreaks while taking antivirals is not common so you need to confirm these are infact herpes outbreaks. Also how were you diagnosed with herpes and is it hsv1 or hsv2 and what location.