RELIEF: Randomized Episodic Versus Long-Term Suppression Experience With Famciclovir

A Study to Determine the Safety and Efficacy of Famciclovir in the Episodic and Suppressive Treatment of Recurrent Genital Herpes (RGH). The Study Will Also Evaluate Quality of Life and Patient Satisfaction

This trial will assess whether RGH patients who have two recurrent episodes within a three month period would benefit from suppressive treatment and whether patients prefer episodic therapy or suppressive therapy for the treatment of their RGH.

Inclusion Criteria:

• • Patients who are immunocompetent and who have had 4 or more episodes of Recurrent Genital Herpes (RGH) in the last 12 months.

  • Patients with active HSV-2 or HSV-1 infection as confirmed by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR).
  • Patients with active symptoms (i.e., itching, burning, tingling, aching, tenderness, rash or pain) associated with a recurrent episode of genital herpes

Exclusion Criteria:

• • Female patients who are pregnant or breast-feeding.

  • Current, history or suspicion of liver disease or kidney disease.
  • HIV infected (as confirmed by positive HIV serology).

Other protocol-defined inclusion/exclusion criteria may apply.