Does antiviral treatment treat cold sores?

Cold sores, also called fever blisters, are caused by herpes simplex virus. Antiviral medicines reduce viral activity during an episode; they do not remove the virus from the body, so cold sores can return. Treatment may be available as a cream or medicine taken by mouth, depending on the pattern, severity, location, and your medical history.

The earliest signs can include tingling, burning, or sensitivity before a visible blister. A clinician or pharmacist can advise whether treatment is suitable and how quickly it should begin. Avoid using eye products or sharing prescriptions for a sore near the eye or on another person’s skin.

Keep the area clean, avoid picking the crust, and wash your hands after touching your mouth. Do not kiss, have oral contact, or share lip balm, cups, towels, or utensils while the sore is active. Protect the area from irritating products and use suitable pain relief only as directed. Recurrent or unusually severe sores deserve a clinical review.

Seek urgent medical advice for a sore near the eye, eye pain, light sensitivity, vision change, widespread sores, severe illness, or difficulty drinking. Prompt assessment is also needed for a newborn exposed to a cold sore, a person with reduced immunity, or sores that are not healing or keep spreading. Emergency help is needed for breathing difficulty or facial swelling.

Ask whether your symptoms fit a cold sore, whether treatment should start at the tingling stage, how to reduce transmission, whether recurring episodes need a prevention plan, and when a sore needs testing.