06/02/2026
FAQs About GARM's HSV Immunotherapy:
1. How long will the therapy take to work?
Recurrent herpetic disease is a condition of immuno-tolerance. This particular immunotherapy is designed to help reset your immune response to properly control the HSV virus. The initial protocol requires three administrations. Although it may be possible to experience benefits after the first dose, therapeutic effect is not expected until two weeks following the second dose.
2. How long does the therapy last?
The effects depend on each individual’s immune system. In five year and ten year follow ups of phase one safety studies and case studies, some patients remained in complete remission. Other patients reported the return of some symptoms in as short as two years. A maintenance treatment to support the immune system will likely be required by most patients after 12-24 months. Remember, each person is different, so a “one size fits all” is not the best situation for the patients.
3. What should a patient expect after receiving the therapy?
Expect redness, pain and discomfort at the site of injection. Since the product is administered intradermally, patients experience a “welt-like” development at the injection site just under the surface of the skin. The expected inflammatory response is visible for as long as 2 weeks, this will resolve completely. Flu like symptoms are possible the first 24 hours following administration. Patients who have other inflammatory conditions may experience increased, albeit temporary, exacerbation of those conditions.
4. What is the downtime?
This is an outpatient treatment, normal daily function should not be disrupted. There will be a 24 follow up consultation after each administration
5. What are the side effects?
Redness and discomfort at the site of injection. Potential flu like symptoms for the first 24 hours.
6. Should antivirals be discontinued?
Yes. Antivirals must be discontinued two weeks before treatment. There is the possibility of a reactivation between the first dose and the second dose as the immune system resets to the new normal. If the patient desires to use antivirals it should not be oral daily suppressive medications; topical antivirals are preferable as to not interfere with the new mounting immune response. The goal is permanent discontinuation of suppressive antiviral therapy.
7. What are other medications a patient should discontinue prior to receiving the therapy?
Any immune suppressing medications that can be safely discontinued such as NSAIDs and steroids. If you are receiving immunosuppressive treatments prescribed by your doctor for specific autoimmune conditions, it is possible you will need additional administrations of the HSV immunotherapy, more frequent boosters, and may experience less pronounced therapeutic results. Therapeutic effect is still possible while on other immunosuppressive therapies, please consult with our physicians for a personalized protocol.
8. Is there anything a patient cannot do after therapy?
Take antivirals, at least for the first 48 hours after treatment; however, we recommend staying off of antivirals if at all possible. No alcohol, steroids, NSAIDs, or other immune suppressing activities for at least 48 hours
9. Who is eligible to receive this therapy?
HSV1 or HSV2 positive patients over 21 years of age
10. Who should not receive the therapy?
Minors, pregnant women, nursing women
11. If I have other inflammatory issues, could those be affected after the treatment?
The data to date indicates the resolution of many off target inflammatory issues. There has been no specific RCT to study this effect.
12. What is the dosing schedule and what is the time between treatments?
Three interventions one month apart. From day 0 to the 3rd administration 2 months: Days 0 - 30 – 60.
13. What is the follow up process?
Patients will participate in a 24 hour follow up consultation. A weekly, monthly, and annual follow up schedule will be set at the time of your appointment.
14. How do I know if I am a candidate?
A confirmed HSV diagnosis via elisa or western blot
15. Does insurance pay for this treatment.
No, sadly, this treatment is self pay.
16. What is GARM?
GARM Clinic is an elite regenerative, longevity and immunotherapy facility providing access to patients for treatments they cannot get in the U.S., for more than 14 years. GARM has an established, globally recognized reputation for excellence for advancing safe & effective therapies for patients who need them.
17. What do I need to do to receive the therapy?
Contact hsvsolution@garmclinic.com to enter the queue for the initial consultation.
18. Is there anything else I need to know?
Yes; Roatan is an island in the Western Caribbean. You will need a passport to travel. GARM’s staff and patient liaisons are poised to help schedule your treatment, recommend resort accommodations, ground transportation, and any other questions you may have.
