Comprehensive Sexual Health Treatments

Taking control of your sexual health is an important step toward overall wellness. This category page provides an overview of prescription options for managing and preventing sexually transmitted infections. From antiviral treatments for herpes to innovative prevention strategies for bacterial STIs, we offer evidence-based solutions through licensed healthcare providers.

Antiviral Treatments for Herpes

Valacyclovir 500 mg

Valacyclovir is a prescription antiviral medication used as suppressive therapy for herpes zoster (shingles) and genital herpes. It also can prevent genital herpes outbreaks from coming back with daily use.

• Uses: Genital herpes (initial and recurrent outbreaks), herpes zoster (shingles), cold sores
• Dosing: Treatment of outbreaks (typically twice daily) or suppressive therapy (once daily)
• Mechanism: Prodrug that converts to acyclovir in the body to stop viral replication
• Advantage: Enhanced absorption allows for less frequent dosing compared to acyclovir
• Manufacturer: Camber Pharmaceuticals and various generic manufacturers

Acyclovir 400 mg

Acyclovir is a first-generation prescription antiviral medication used to treat active herpes outbreaks, including genital herpes and shingles. It is most effective when taken within 72 hours of symptom onset.

• Uses: Genital herpes outbreaks, herpes zoster (shingles), chickenpox
• Dosing: Typically five times daily for 5-10 days for outbreaks
• Mechanism: Stops the herpes virus from replicating, reducing outbreak duration and severity
• Best For: Treating active outbreaks rather than daily suppression
• Manufacturer: Various manufacturers

Antibiotic Prevention for Bacterial STIs

Doxy PEP 100 mg (Doxycycline Post-Exposure Prophylaxis)

Doxy PEP is a groundbreaking prescription antibiotic strategy designed to help prevent bacterial STIs after sexual exposure. Taken within 24-72 hours after sex, it kills bacteria before an infection can establish itself.

• Uses: Prevention of syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia after exposure
• Dosage: Two 100mg pills (200mg total) taken as soon as possible after sex, ideally within 24 hours
• Effectiveness: Highly effective against syphilis and chlamydia moderate protection against gonorrhea
• Recommended For: Gay and bisexual men, transgender women, and others at increased risk as determined by CDC guidelines
• Note: Does NOT protect against viral STIs such as HIV, herpes, HPV, or mpox
• Manufacturer: Chartwell and various manufacturers

Comparison of Treatment Options

Important Safety Information

For Valacyclovir and Acyclovir:

• These medications do not cure herpes the virus remains in the body
• Dosage adjustment required for patients with kidney impairment
• Common side effects: headache, nausea, diarrhea
• May still transmit herpes even when asymptomatic use protection
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before use

For Doxy PEP:

• Does not protect against viral STIs including HIV, herpes, HPV, or mpox
• Common side effects: nausea, sun sensitivity, gastrointestinal upset
• Regular STI testing every 3-6 months is required
• Do not use if allergic to doxycycline or tetracycline antibiotics
• Use only as recommended by your healthcare provider to prevent antibiotic resistance
• Not a replacement for condoms use alongside other prevention methods

Get Started

All medications listed above require a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. Complete a confidential online consultation to determine which treatment option is right for you. Your privacy is protected throughout the entire process, and medication is delivered discreetly to your door when prescribed.