For people who take antiviral medications daily should consider discussing with their doctor about stopping their medication for a while. This will help to determine if their genital herpes are still frequently recurring. The result will help determine whether there is a need for further intake of the medication. For people who have more than 6 outbreaks annually or those who have more severe outbreaks will benefit from daily intake of the antiviral medication. Antiviral medication is best taken as soon as the symptoms become apparent. People who are infected with herpes should always keep their antiviral herpes medication handy.

Herpes medication like acyclovir and valacyclovir are more commonly used for pregnant women. For the more immune suppressed patients, it is advised that they take their antiviral medication daily to prevent any recurrent outbreaks. They may also dorm a resistance to antiviral medication. Some antiviral medications are taken through the vein (intravenously) through an IV. But these can have very dangerous side effects. There is also a topical form of acyclovir, but it offers very little benefit and is not normally recommended.