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Aciclovir timing — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateInfectionsAciclovir timingGPhC CRA

A 30-year-old woman has recurrent genital herpes and collects aciclovir for episodic treatment. Symptoms of tingling started this morning and no lesions have appeared yet. What would you advise the patient?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: A — Start aciclovir as soon as possible at the prodrome stage

Episodic antiviral treatment for recurrent herpes is most effective when started early, ideally during prodromal symptoms or soon after lesion onset. Delaying until crusting reduces benefit. The full prescribed course should be completed unless advised otherwise. Counselling should include transmission risk and safer sex advice.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS