Do pills for cold sores work?
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.
How quickly do cold sore pills work?
Valacyclovir usually starts treating herpes symptoms as soon as it’s in your system, but can take several days to produce a noticeable improvement. It can take up to 10 days (or, in some cases, even longer) for herpes blisters to heal even with valacyclovir treatment.
How do you get rid of cold sores ASAP?
What are the best ways to get rid of a cold sore?
- Cold, damp washcloth.
- Ice or cold compress.
- Petroleum jelly.
- Pain relievers, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen.
Is it possible to kiss someone with a cold sore and not get one?
The short answer is that it’s not. In general, it’s best to wait until after the scabs and sores completely disappear before you kiss someone or engage in oral sex. This is because the herpes virus can continue shedding in the late stages of a cold sore healing, even if there’s no viral fluid present.
How long after a cold sore can you give oral?
Realistically, you should wait to engage in oral sex until after the cold sores are completely healed, which can take anywhere from 2–6 weeks. You should also abstain from oral sex, kissing, sharing eating utensils, lip balm, etc., until your outbreak is totally gone.
Is it better to cover a cold sore or let it breathe?
“If you just did the cream without viral therapy, you would be feeding the cold sore infection,” says Dr. Young. “But if you’re on the antiviral medicines, that could help decrease the symptoms.” Don’t put any kind of covering on top of the blister; air speeds the healing of these.
