[Question #12120] HSV and dependency on daily suppressive therapy
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10 months ago
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I have both GHSV1 (dx 2018, horrible initial outbreak, no noticeable outbreaks after) and GHSV2 (dx 2021, bad initial outbreak (not as bad as with initial HSV1). Since 2021, will get a small 1-2 lesion outbreak within 24-48 hours if I miss a dose of valacyclovir qd 500 mg. Have experienced no outbreaks if consistent with daily suppression but as soon as I try to stop— outbreak. Wanted to ask if daily suppressive therapy has any hindrance on developing an immune response? I.e why haven’t I developed any innate suppression after over 3 years of infection?
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Terri Warren, RN, Nurse Practitioner
10 months ago
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So, just to clarify: you had a swab from a lesion in 2018 that was positive for HSV 1, and then in 2021, you had a swab test from a lesion that was positive for HSV 2, correct?
After three years you very likely have antibody to both types though you could do an antibody test and find out for sure. Your genital HSV 1 is likely NOT the culprit in breakthrough outbreaks as it is normally quiet in the genital area. Have you had the small lesions that you get after missing a dose swab tested to be certain they are HSV? If yes, then I don't have a great answer for you except to encourage you not to miss doses of medication.
Terri
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10 months ago
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Correct. Yes have had swabbed to confirm. I think my question was more along the lines of confirming that taking valacyclovir consistently since contracting the virus should not have any affect on antibody production? Thanks.
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Terri Warren, RN, Nurse Practitioner
10 months ago
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I think that if you have taken it since 2018, 6 years, you've almost certainly made antibody. I can delay antibody production, yes, but I doubt it would apply 6 years later.
Terri
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