Which antiviral medication is commonly used to treat genital herpes infections?

Which antiviral medication is commonly used to treat genital herpes infections?

• A. Valacyclovir
• B. Famciclovir
• C. Acyclovir
• D. Ganciclovir

Answer: (C)

Genital herpes can be treated with antiviral drugs that block the virus’s DNA replication. Acyclovir is a classic first-line agent because it’s selectively activated in infected cells and directly inhibits viral DNA polymerase, halting viral replication and shortening symptoms. In infected cells, HSV thymidine kinase converts acyclovir to its active monophosphate form, and cellular enzymes then form the active triphosphate. This selective activation in HSV-infected tissues gives strong efficacy with a favorable safety profile and convenient oral dosing, making it a go-to option for both initial outbreaks and recurrent episodes. Valacyclovir and famciclovir are prodrugs with better oral bioavailability, so they’re also used and effective, but acyclovir remains a staple due to its long track record and reliability. Ganciclovir, while potent against certain herpesviruses, is more toxic and primarily reserved for CMV infections, so it isn’t a typical choice for genital herpes.

Genital herpes can be treated with antiviral drugs that block the virus’s DNA replication. Acyclovir is a classic first-line agent because it’s selectively activated in infected cells and directly inhibits viral DNA polymerase, halting viral replication and shortening symptoms. In infected cells, HSV thymidine kinase converts acyclovir to its active monophosphate form, and cellular enzymes then form the active triphosphate. This selective activation in HSV-infected tissues gives strong efficacy with a favorable safety profile and convenient oral dosing, making it a go-to option for both initial outbreaks and recurrent episodes.

Valacyclovir and famciclovir are prodrugs with better oral bioavailability, so they’re also used and effective, but acyclovir remains a staple due to its long track record and reliability. Ganciclovir, while potent against certain herpesviruses, is more toxic and primarily reserved for CMV infections, so it isn’t a typical choice for genital herpes.