Valtrex vs Acyclovir on Transmission

My job changed insurance companies. The NEW Doctor tells me that the only difference between taking Valtrex (what I have been taking) to Acyclovir (What they now want to prescribe) is the number of times a day you take it. I looked online...they say that Valtrex does a better job of helping you not to transmit the virus (most of this information provided by GlaxoSmithKline of course). The supression study has them identical. I am in a relationship where I really enjoy our "personal time". Yes the 2 perscriptions are very different in cost, but I want the best chance not to infect my mate. I have had the virus for a LONG time, and through the Valtrex and knowing my body well...I have not given it to any of my partners (Fist Pumping YES!). I don't want money to be the reason this changes. Please advice.

[gracefromHHP]

Well valtrex is generic now everywhere so it shouldn't be a money issue for most folks if they have decent prescription coverage with their insurance.  Acyclovir is still way cheaper but if you have insurance coverage that makes generics low cost, valtrex is, as of this month, going to be WAY cheaper for you now :)

the technicality to the answer to your question is this - only valtrex has been studied for reduction in transmission to a partner.  We'll never see studies with famvir or acyclovir either since both are generics and no money is to be made from doing the studies at this point.  All 3 herpes antivirals reduce shedding of the virus about the same ( some info out there that famvir is less effective in folks who don't have obvious ob's that they are aware of - just wanted to put that out there for folks reading your post ).  

So what do you do? My advice to you is - you've been on valtrex for awhile now. You are used to once daily dosing. Why change?

grace

[soaringeagle]

What is the cost of generic valtrex?

[gracefromHHP]

it will depend on your insurance. give your pharmacy you use a call and ask what it will cost with your insurance.

grace