Can herpes carrier have safe sex?

Q: I am in my 50s, and I have herpes simplex 2 (HSV-2). I am interested in having a sexual relationship with a new partner. I don't want to transmit the herpes virus to him. If my partner wears a condom and I'm on suppressive therapy (Famvir), how safe will it be?

A: Antiviral medications like Famvir and Valtrex diminish herpes outbreaks and decrease viral shedding by 85 percent to 95 percent. As a result, the chance of transmitting the herpes virus is reduced but not eliminated.

Regular use of a condom can further lessen the likelihood of passing the virus to your partner. Even this combination, however, is not perfect.

Two gels help lubricate nose

Q: I'm responding to the issue of using Vicks VapoRub or Mentholatum to keep the inside of the nose lubricated. I'm a flight attendant who flies long international flights (often 10 hours or more). Given the lack of humidity on the airplane, my nose was often uncomfortably dry, sometimes bleeding slightly.

An ear, nose and throat specialist recommended a product designed to be used inside the nose, without the petrolatum base of Vicks or Mentholatum. I have found two: Nose Better and Ayr Gel.

These are gels that stay inside the nose and help maintain appropriate moisture. They are both over-the-counter products, but often not regularly stocked. I've had good luck at many pharmacies just asking them to order the product for me. It makes a huge difference in my poor nose's ability to tolerate the dryness of the airplane.

A: Thank you for this practical suggestion. We found both products online. Directions say they may be used in the nostrils to relieve discomfort. Neither Vicks VapoRub nor Mentholatum should be used inside the nose.

Grapefruit with some meds can raise blood levels

Q: I was disappointed to learn of the ban of grapefruit or its juice while taking lovastatin. Is there another cholesterol-lowering drug that doesn't exclude grapefruit?

A: Grapefruit can raise blood levels of lovastatin and many other medicines. This could increase the risk of side effects. Zocor and Lipitor are affected by grapefruit, but Pravachol and Crestor are not.

In their column, Joe and Teresa Graedon answer letters from readers. Write to them c/o King Features Syndicate, 888 Seventh Ave., New York, NY 10019, or e-mail them at pharmacy@mindspring.com or via their Web site: www.peoplespharmacy.org