ASHA's Herpes Resource Center

CDC Reports Regional Shortages of Common Herpes Medication

On January 26, 2010 the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a notice about shortages in the U.S. of the antiviral drug acyclovir. A long-standing treatment option for genital herpes (and other conditions such as shingles), acyclovir is a generic drug valued by many patients for its low cost.

Acyclovir availability may vary by region, as some reports indicate the impact is especially acute on the west coast. The Food & Drug Administration (FDA) attributes the shortage to a combination of increased demand for the drug and manufacturing delays. ASHA president Lynn Barclay points out that patients who take acyclovir for genital herpes and reside in affected regions have few options other than more costly medications. “Acyclovir is a safe, effective, inexpensive treatment option both for those with short- and long-term prescriptions. We’re optimistic the supply issue will be resolved soon, but we understand how difficult this must be for patients who need therapy for herpes but are temporarily unable to access their regular prescription.”

Barclay notes that while legitimate over-the-counter products are available for oral herpes outbreaks (cold sores) exist, there are no FDA-approved medications available without a prescription to treat genital herpes. “Beware ‘miracle cures,’ as there are many non-regulated items sold online that claim to reduce or eliminate herpes outbreaks,” she says. “We know such products might be tempting for someone who has trouble refilling a prescription, but we stress in the strongest possible terms not to use anything to treat genital herpes without first checking with your health care provider or pharmacist.”

In addition to acyclovir, other antivirals approved to treat genital herpes include valacyclovir (available under the brand name Valtrex®) and famciclovir (marketed as Famvir®).

For the latest on the status of acyclovir, visit the CDCs websiteInformation is available from the FDA as well.

speak up about dear abby--What do you think?
Recently, the "Dear Abby" column answered a letter from a writer questioning her decision not to date a man solely because he has genital herpes. ASHA wants to know how you feel about Abby’s response. To read about the column and responses so far, visit the ASHA message boards. Then add your own comments and let your voice be heard. We’ll publish your comments in our next issue of The Helper, our quarterly herpes newsletter.

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