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Remicade and Herpes

I have GHSV2 and have had to go on remicade to treat my ulceratice colitis. I am trying to figure out how to minimize outbreaks (I seem to get one after every infusion) I am currently on generic valtrex which I had only been taking for outbreaks. I looked up the standard dosing for prevention of outbreaks but that doesnt seem to keep them at bay either. I cant stop getting th remicade so are there any suggestions as to what I can do?
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Avatar universal
thanks...takes me about 3 days to recover from the infusion anyway.
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101028 tn?1419603004
since you know you are getting recurrences with the  medication, I'd avoid sex for a week after getting the shot if your partner is hsv2-.  
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Avatar universal
how soon after the one day regimen would I be considered safe for sexual contact?
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101028 tn?1419603004
play around and see what works for you :)  best of luck!
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Avatar universal
I had never heard of the one day dose until now. just went and looked it up and will definitely try that on the day of my infusion and when I have my next outbreak. that is so much more convenient.
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101028 tn?1419603004
You can do that too - take the 1 day dose of valtrex the day of the infusion or even do the 3 day - both work about the same.  
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Avatar universal
not yet. bit I think I will try it. I was thinking of taking the outbeeak dosage starting the day of my infusion and for a few days after. but I would talk ti my doctor first.
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101028 tn?1419603004
it's not unusual at all to have more recurrences while on remicade :(  Having UC in general can trigger more recurrences even unfortunately.

Have you tried daily suppressive therapy with valtrex 1gm daily yet?  

grace
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Avatar universal
The frequency of outbreaks is more genetic than anything, and they tend to get less frequent with time. Your genetics will have a strong say on how your immune system will be although certain drugs can possibly weaken your immune system.

Remicade could be weakening your immune system to fight HSV-2, but that's debatable because it could be due to other factors such as your condition or a genetic predisposition involving your immune system. Usually, herpes attacks when your immune system is at its weakest, so since your immune system is possibly hindered by this drug, it's possible that outbreaks are a result of a relatively constant suppressed immune system.

I see you're on Valtrex only for outbreaks, but are not on a daily suppressive anti-viral. Since you can't stop getting the Remicade then it wouldn't be a bad idea to get on a daily antiviral; either Acyclovir or Valtrex.

I know Grace has read some information regarding Remicade, so she'll probably weigh in later to give you a better idea.
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