Cold Sore Treatments
Fast-Acting Antiviral Tablets for Oral Herpes (HSV-1)
Cold sores are small, painful blisters that typically appear on or around the lips, caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). They can be triggered by stress, illness, or sun exposure, and often return in the same area.
At MediClick Pharmacy, we offer effective prescription treatments including Aciclovir, Valaciclovir, and Valtrex – all available through a short online consultation with discreet, next-day UK delivery.
Available Cold Sore Treatments
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Aciclovir
£19.99 Add to basket This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
Valaciclovir
£32.99 Add to basket This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
Valtrex
£28.99 Add to basket This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
What Are Cold Sores?
Cold sores begin as a tingling or burning sensation around the lips, quickly developing into painful, fluid-filled blisters. They usually clear up on their own within 7–10 days, but antiviral treatment can:
- Speed up healing
- Reduce discomfort
- Shorten the duration of an outbreak
- Lower the risk of spreading the virus
Treatment is most effective when taken at the first sign of symptoms.
How Do Cold Sore Treatments Work?
All treatments work by preventing the herpes virus from multiplying, helping your body control the outbreak and reducing the severity of symptoms.
While these medications won’t cure the virus, they can:
- Help cold sores heal faster
- Reduce pain and swelling
- Minimise the risk of transmission
Symptoms of Cold Sores
Cold sores are small, fluid-filled blisters caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1). They usually appear around the lips or mouth and are highly contagious, especially during an active outbreak.
Typical symptoms include:
- A tingling, itching, or burning sensation around the lips (often the first sign)
- Development of small, painful blisters on or near the mouth
- Blisters that burst, crust over, and form scabs
- Redness and swelling in the affected area
- Occasional fever, swollen glands, or fatigue, especially during the first outbreak
Cold sores typically clear up on their own within 7 to 10 days, but antiviral treatments such as Aciclovir or Valaciclovir can help speed up healing and reduce the severity of symptoms when used at the earliest sign of an outbreak.
How to Use Cold Sore Treatments
Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) and are best treated at the first sign of symptoms, such as tingling, itching, or burning. Treatments include oral antiviral tablets and topical antiviral creams.
Oral Antiviral Tablets (Aciclovir or Valaciclovir):
- Take the tablet with water, with or without food.
- Start treatment as soon as possible after symptoms appear.
- Continue the full course as prescribed, even if symptoms improve.
Common Questions About Cold Sores
What are cold sores?
Cold sores are small, fluid-filled blisters that usually appear around the lips or mouth. They are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) and are highly contagious, especially when the sores are open and healing.
What are the symptoms of a cold sore?
Symptoms typically include:
- Tingling, itching, or burning sensation around the lips (often the first sign)
- Small fluid-filled blisters
- Pain or soreness at the site
- Crusting and scabbing as the sore heals
Cold sores usually clear up within 7 to 10 days without leaving scars.
What triggers cold sore outbreaks?
Triggers can vary but often include:
- Stress or emotional upset
- Illness or fever (“fever blisters”)
- Sunlight exposure
- Fatigue
- Hormonal changes (e.g., menstruation)
Once you are infected with the herpes simplex virus, it remains dormant in your body and can reactivate.
How are cold sores treated?
Cold sores can be treated with antiviral medications to speed up healing and reduce symptoms. Treatments include:
- Oral antiviral tablets (e.g., Aciclovir, Valaciclovir)
- Topical antiviral creams (e.g., Aciclovir cream)
Starting treatment at the first sign of a tingling or burning sensation can help shorten the duration of the outbreak.
Can cold sores be prevented?
While you cannot completely prevent cold sores, you can reduce the frequency of outbreaks by:
- Managing stress
- Using lip balm with sun protection
- Avoiding known personal triggers
Taking antiviral medication for suppression if outbreaks are frequent
Are cold sores contagious?
Yes, cold sores are highly contagious, especially when the blisters are present and healing.
- Avoid kissing, sharing utensils, or touching the sores during an outbreak.
- Always wash your hands after touching the area.
Are there any side effects from cold sore treatments?
Possible side effects include:
- Mild stinging or burning with topical creams
- Headache or nausea with oral antivirals
Severe side effects are rare. Always seek advice if you experience signs of an allergic reaction or if the infection worsens.
Dosage Information for Cold Sore Treatments
Aciclovir Tablets:
- Typical dosage: 200mg taken five times daily
- Course duration: 5 days (can be extended if needed)
Valaciclovir Tablets:
- Typical dosage: 500mg twice daily
- Course duration: 5 to 10 days depending on severity
Important:
- For severe or frequent outbreaks, suppressive therapy (daily antiviral tablets) may be advised by your prescriber
- Avoid sharing towels, lip balms, or close contact during outbreaks to reduce the risk of spreading the virus
Possible Side Effects
Common Side Effects:
Mild stinging or burning sensation at the application site (with cream) / Nausea or upset stomach (with tablets) / Headache / Tiredness
Less Common Side Effects:
Skin rash / Dizziness
Rare Side Effects (seek medical advice):
Allergic reaction (rash, itching, swelling) / Severe skin irritation or blistering
If symptoms worsen or you experience severe reactions, stop treatment and consult a healthcare professional.
Why Choose MediClick Pharmacy?
- UK-registered and regulated online pharmacy
- Fast, confidential online consultation
- Discreet next-day UK delivery
- No subscription – order only when required
How It Works
Step - 1
Complete a quick online consultation
Step - 2
Our UK-based prescribers review your application
Step - 3
Once approved, your treatment is dispatched for next-day delivery