Which antiviral medication is commonly used to treat HSV-1 and HSV-2 infections?

The correct choice indicates that all of the listed antiviral medications—Famciclovir, Acyclovir, and Valacyclovir—are commonly used to treat infections caused by the herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 (HSV-1 and HSV-2).

Acyclovir is one of the first-line treatments for herpes infections and works by inhibiting viral DNA synthesis, which effectively reduces the severity and duration of outbreaks. Valacyclovir is a prodrug of Acyclovir, meaning it is converted into Acyclovir in the body, and it offers improved bioavailability, allowing for less frequent dosing. Famciclovir, while less commonly used than Acyclovir and Valacyclovir, is also effective as it is converted to penciclovir, which acts similarly to Acyclovir to inhibit viral replication.

The use of these medications can help manage outbreaks, decrease transmission rates, and improve the overall quality of life for individuals living with herpes simplex virus infections. Each of these antiviral options has specific indications and might be chosen based on factors such as side effects, patient compliance, or specific clinical situations, making all of them relevant in the treatment of HSV-1 and HSV-2 infections.