What medication should a client predisposed to herpes simplex begin prior to a chemical peel?

A client predisposed to herpes simplex should begin taking antiviral medication prior to a chemical peel to prevent an outbreak of the virus during or after the procedure. Chemical peels can cause skin irritation and disruption of the skin barrier, which may trigger the herpes simplex virus in individuals who are prone to outbreaks. By using antiviral medication, the risk of a herpes simplex outbreak can be significantly reduced, allowing the client to recover more effectively and safely from the chemical peel.

Antibiotic medications are designed to treat bacterial infections and are not effective against viral infections such as herpes simplex. Antifungal medications target fungal infections, which are unrelated to herpes simplex and would not provide the necessary protection for a client with this viral predisposition. Analgesic medications may help alleviate pain or discomfort but do not address the viral aspect that could lead to reactivation of herpes simplex. Therefore, initiating antiviral medication is the most appropriate and effective course of action for clients at risk of a herpes outbreak.