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Herpes Suppressive Therapy

Method of treatment

Oral Antiviral medication

Length of treatment

6-12 months

Further Actions

Consult your clinician if you experience any side effects.

Locations

Online. Anywhere in the UK.

Fees

£60-120. Learn more.

Journey Overview

#1 Online Questionnaire

If you are a new or current patient seeking to begin suppressive therapy, it is recommended to book in for a consultation with one of our clinicians for a thorough discussion. If you tested positive for Herpes with another clinic, you will need to bring proof of your positive test result.

#2 Dispense Medications

If you are a current patient and are already on suppressive therapy, you can fill in a repeat medications questionnaire and have your medication ready to collect, or be posted to you.

#3 Further Actions

You will need to avoid having sex until your sores have disappeared and ensure your partner(s) are also tested. If you are experiencing any side effects from the medications, please request a follow-up call. Seek medical attention immediately if you display signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (angioedema).

Common side effects can include headache, nausea, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain. If you experience side effects that are bothersome or severe, consult your healthcare provider. They can assess whether you should continue taking the medication or if an alternative treatment should be considered.

Patient Feedback

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C
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I've been trying to get my coil replaced since May on the NHS, but they couldn't do it as my threads have been cut too short. Waiting lists for NHS gynae appointment are insane (~1 year) so after some deliberating I decided to go private. I chose Clarewell Clinics as they had great reviews and also compared to other clinics, were a lot more reasonably priced. I booked an ultrasound guided coil removal in hopes that Dr. Elena would be able to do it without needing to go down a more invasive route. Thankfully, she did it with ease and also replaced it with a Mirena coil (on the NHS they had told me my uterus was too small so had to go with Kyleena). It was such a more pleasant experience than when I did it on the NHS. Dr. Elena and Yemi kept me comfortable and eased my anxiety the whole way through the process. The pain relief options were also better- air and gas was a lifesaver! I could still feel the pain but it was milder and so much more bareable than the insertion I had 5 years ago. It was over quickly and I was sent away with a heat pack to ease the cramping afterwards. Thank you so much Dr Elena, Yemi and also Ryaan for being a friendly face in the reception. I would thoroughly recommend Clarewell Clinics :)
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K S
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I had a mirena replacement with Elena, supported by Ryan. I have previously had bad experiences, but the approach here and the pain management meant if I had to come back next week for another one, I’d do it. I arrived feeling sick and shaking but Ryan put me at ease, Elena did a fantastic and quick job and the gas and air made a huge difference, I barely felt anything. The whole team were friendly and welcoming and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them. I had an injection and she didn’t wait for pain to come to manage it, it was managed upfront. I’m so incredibly grateful, thank you. Ryan and Elena are a fantastic team
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P R
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Mr Aaron Williams saw us while we were visiting London from the US and he treated us well, with compassion and professionalism. Seeing him helped put us at ease for the rest of our trip, which ended up being great.
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E R
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Incredible care and treatment. Can't thank Dr Jayadeva and his team enough who put me at great ease and looked after me. Wonderful clinic will be recommending.
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A L
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I had a copper coil removal yesterday with Dr Praveen Jayadeva. If you are at all nervous about an iud fitting or removal, I couldn't recommend this clinic enough. I had a very painful experience at a different clinic that made me really scared about the removal procedure. They really take the time to talk you through what's going to happen and what type of pain relief options you have. They were so friendly and comforting (both the doctor and the amazing assistant) and procedure was so quick. They even offer you tea and biscuits afterwards. Really fantastic and professional clinic!
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B G
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I had a coil done here. It was an amazing experience, really worth the money paid. The doctor took the time to go through the process and all the options in detail. I felt prepared and well cared for. I had numbing gel and spray and also gas and air. The actual coil fitting was less then 5 minutes. I felt a little discomfort, but the gas and air managed this very well. The team were all very supportive and caring. My coil lasts for 5 years, I'm very happy with my experience. Could not recommend enough.
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D
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Dr. Malu was able to help me fully understand and put into context my concerns surrounding HPV, which at times can feel like a confusing subject. His ability to listen and understand my concerns with empathy and without judgement was very helpful. I am grateful for the expertise and care given by Dr. Malu and the staff at his clinic. The team provides a very professional and comfortable experience.
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A R
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Fantastic and caring team from booking process, reception, appointment and billing. Went for a coil removal. They had ultrasound and gas for pain management (when I checked it seemed they were the only clinic that offered this!!). 100% recommend. Especially if you’re getting a coil, want to make sure you do it with a top professional team. I inserted it elsewhere and it was a barbaric procedure for me, insanely painful and just awful. So save yourself unnecessary trauma/pain
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A
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I had such a great experience at Clarewell Clinic. I was extremely nervous about the pain before my copper IUD fitting, but Dr Praveen Jayadeva explained everything clearly throughout the appointment and made me feel completely comfortable. I was given pain relief and the fitting was honestly so much easier than I expected — I barely felt any pain at all. Yasmin was also incredibly lovely and reassuring throughout. I’m genuinely so happy I chose Clarewell and would definitely recommend them. 10/10.

Eligibility

Best For

Managing frequent herpes outbreaks long-term.

Pregnancy/Breastfeeding

Doctor may prescribe if outbreaks frequent.

Menstruation

No contra-indications.

Prior/Repeat Use

Resistance is uncommon but possible.

Do NOT use if

Allergic to Aciclovir or ingredients.

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Avoid/Discuss if

Taking other medications (check interactions).

Fees

Testing

Herpes DNA PCR Test - £150 (results in 4 working days)

Herpes Antibody Test - £150 (results in 60 minutes)

We offer a quantitive Herpes Antibody Test (with index values). However, this costs £350 and takes 2-3 weeks for results.

Treatment

Herpes Suppressive Therapy (existing patients) - £60 (3 month supply)

Herpes Suppressive Therapy (new patients) - £120 (3 month supply)

Herpes Outbreak Treatment - £30

Consultation

Included in test. £60 if no tests taken.

Payment Options

  • Self Pay - By Cash/Card), but not American Express
  • Health insurance
  • Klarna – a payment plan to split the cost over 4 payments.

FAQs

Can Herpes be cured?

Whilst herpes cannot be cured, it can be well managed and with effective medications it has become easier to live a normal life.

How does suppressive therapy work?

Herpes suppressive therapy involves taking daily antiviral medications to prevent the herpes virus from replicating and causing outbreaks. This helps to reduce the frequency and severity of herpes outbreaks, lowering the risk of transmitting the virus to others, and improving the overall quality of life for individuals with herpes. While it does not cure herpes, it provides long-term management and symptom relief.

How effective is the suppressive therapy?

Herpes suppressive therapy is highly effective in managing herpes especially when medications are taken as prescribed.

Are there any side effects to having suppressive therapy?

Common side effects may include headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain. Rarely suppressive therapy can cause changes in kidney function or blood cell counts.

If you experience side effects that are bothersome or severe, consult your clinician. They can assess whether you should continue taking the medication or if an alternative treatment should be considered.

Will being on suppressive therapy affect my immune system?

Herpes suppressive therapy is not typically known to have a negative impact on the immune system. These medications work specifically to inhibit the replication of the herpes virus without significantly affecting the overall functioning of the immune system.

A strong immune system is essential for controlling the herpes virus naturally. This includes maintaining a healthy lifestyle with proper nutrition, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management.

What happens if I have symptoms while taking my suppressive therapy?

You may still experience an occasional outbreak; however, this differs for each individual. If you do experience an outbreak, you should contact your clinician for advice on what to do next.

Do I need to get tested in order to be on suppressive therapy?

It is advisable to have evidence of a positive herpes test before suppressive therapy medications can be prescribed.

However, starting suppressive therapy before receiving your herpes results is down to the discretion of your clinician.

Will my partner also need to be on suppressive therapy?

It is not necessary for your partner to be on suppressive therapy if they do not have herpes. However, If your partner is diagnosed with herpes and experiences frequent outbreaks, they may consider being on suppressive therapy.

Will I become resistant to suppressive therapy over time?

Resistance to suppressive therapy for herpes is relatively uncommon but not impossible.

Will taking suppressive therapy interact with any other medications I am taking?

The medication used for suppressive therapy is generally well tolerated with other medications. However, it is essential to inform your clinician of the medications you are currently taking so that they can assess your eligibility for suppressive therapy.

Can I take suppressive therapy during pregnancy?

Your doctor or obstetrician may consider providing you with suppressive therapy during pregnancy if you are prone to frequent herpes outbreaks.

What do I do if I think I am allergic to suppressive therapy?

If you have any side effects from the medications, please request a follow-up call.

Seek medical attention immediately if you display signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (angioedema).

Severe allergic reactions to Aciclovir are rare but can be life-threatening. Always follow your clinician's instructions and take medications as prescribed. If you suspect an allergic reaction to aciclovir, stop taking the medication immediately and seek medical attention.

Next Steps

In Clinic

Same day test results +/- medications available for most infections.

Not sure what you need? Contact us here.

Page last reviewed by Mrs. Magdalena Nowacka on 1 November 2023 for general guidance only. It is not intended to replace the advice of your clinician.