Acyclovir is an antiviral medication used to treat herpes virus infections, including genital herpes, cold sores, and shingles. It works by preventing the virus from multiplying and spreading in the body. According to the Drug Patent Watch [1], acyclovir was first approved by the US FDA in 1985 and is now available as a generic medication.

Acyclovir is not a cure for herpes, but it can help to reduce the frequency and severity of outbreaks. MedlinePlus [2] notes that acyclovir can be taken orally, topically, or intravenously. It is most effective when taken at the first sign of an outbreak, such as itching or tingling. Acyclovir can also be taken daily to prevent future outbreaks in people with frequent recurrences.

A study published in the journal Clinical Infectious Diseases [3] found that daily suppressive therapy with acyclovir reduced the frequency of genital herpes outbreaks by 70-80% in people with six or more outbreaks per year. The study also found that acyclovir reduced the risk of transmission to uninfected partners by 50%.

Overall, acyclovir is an effective medication for treating and preventing herpes virus infections. It can help to reduce the frequency and severity of outbreaks, and may also reduce the risk of transmission to others. However, it is important to note that acyclovir is not a cure for herpes and cannot completely eliminate the virus from the body.

Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/ACYCLOVIR
[2] https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a681045.html
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2687913/