I don't think it can kill the virus because once you have a herpes virus you have it for life. I think it reduces the viral load that may be activating the immune system and put the virus to sleep. I got the impression from Dr Myhill who is treating me that you can have a worsening of symptoms. Here is a quote from her website:
"A Herxsheimer response with worsening of symptoms and a worsening score continuing for two to six weeks after treatment began was a good prognostic omen."
http://www.drmyhill.co.uk/wiki/Valacyclovir_in_the_treatment_of_post_viral_fatigue_syndrome
I was wondering if the worsening for 6 weeks is only when on the full dose, or can you have a worsening of symptoms on any dose? I will have to ask her. Yes I agree there may come a point when side effects are just not worth it!
I took a high quality OLE sporadically for March-April-May and still saw good benefits (lower inflammation, which is like waiving a magic wand over all my symptoms). During the same period, I was taking high doses of good probiotics (prescript assist), too..Starting at the end of May-early June I decided to be more consistent about taking the same OLE dose and taking it every day.... I felt great and, like, Eureka! this is it. Around the same time, I got way more lax w the prescript assist.. then, crashed this past week.. Not hard, but enough to retreat. No aches & pains (which is shocking for me), just sleep...
I don't know if it was the slacking off on prescript assist or upping the OLE, but I'm coming out of it... the sleep felt good. Also, I took 2 prescript assist last night, which always helps me sleep deeply.
I feel like I'm on a good tx now w OLE and Prescript Assist, but I think there are still some ups & downs as your body heals on the right regimen..