Which antiviral is best for cold sores?
One-day treatment with the prescription antiviral drugs famciclovir (Famvir) or valacyclovir (Valtrex) shortens cold sore symptoms by one to two days. These oral medications are most effective when taken at the first sign of a cold sore, such as a burning or tingling sensation.
Is there an over-the-counter medicine for cold sores?
The over-the-counter cold sore ointment docosanol (Abreva) may shorten the healing time of a cold sore. At the first sign of symptoms, apply it to the affected skin as directed on the package. Use a cotton-tipped swab to put medicine on a cold sore.
Can you buy antiviral medication over-the-counter?
Antiviral drugs are not sold over the counter. You can only get them if you have a prescription from a health care provider. Antiviral drugs are different from antibiotics, which fight against bacterial infections.
Can cold sores be treated with antivirals?
Because cold sores are caused by a virus, doctors may suggest an antiviral medication to help you heal more quickly. The antiviral drugs used to treat cold sores include acyclovir (Zovirax), valacyclovir (Valtrex), famciclovir (Famvir), and penciclovir (Denavir).
Is Abreva an antiviral?
Docosanol (Abreva) is a topical antiviral cream. It works by preventing the herpes simplex virus (HSV), the virus that causes cold sores, from attaching onto cell membranes.
Can you get valacyclovir over the counter?
Valacyclovir is a prescription medication and, as a result, one cannot get valacyclovir HCl over-the-counter (valacyclovir OTC). Instead, one must get a prescription from a medical provider before being able to obtain valacyclovir pills.
Does Abreva really help cold sores?
Abreva cold sore cream has been clinically proven to reduce healing time, as well as symptoms such as pain and burning, itching or tingling. It has also been shown to help prevent cold sores from progressing to blister stage when applied at the first sign of an outbreak.
What is the best prescription medication for cold sores?
A Word on FDA Approval. A number of antiviral medications are used to treat herpes infections,which cause cold sores,also known as fever blisters.
What is the best medication for a cold sore?
Virulite Electronic Cold Sore Treatment. Virulite FDA Approved Invisible Light Electronic
What are the best remedies for cold sores?
eat cool,soft foods
What drugs are used to treat cold sores?
Atopic dermatitis(usually begins in childhood and is often called eczema)