Prescription Antiviral Treatments for Cold Sores
Primary Antiviral Medications
Aciclovir tablets remain the gold standard treatment for cold sores in the UK. The typical prescription dose is 400mg taken five times daily for five days, though treatment should ideally begin within 72 hours of symptom onset for maximum effectiveness. EverydayMeds stocks aciclovir 400mg tablets, providing convenient access to this essential antiviral medication.
Alternative Prescription Options
Valaciclovir tablets offer another effective treatment option, often requiring less frequent dosing than aciclovir. Available as valaciclovir 500mg tablets or the branded Valtrex, this medication converts to aciclovir in the body but may achieve higher blood levels. Your prescriber can determine which antiviral medication best suits your individual needs and outbreak pattern.
Topical Treatment Applications
Aciclovir 5% cream provides localised treatment when applied directly to cold sores. This topical approach can be particularly useful for those who prefer external application or experience side effects from oral medications. The cream should be applied five times daily to the affected area, starting as soon as tingling or early symptoms appear.
Treatment Timing and Effectiveness
Early intervention significantly impacts treatment success. The prodromal stage - characterised by tingling, burning, or itching sensations - represents the optimal treatment window. Starting antiviral therapy during this phase may prevent blister formation entirely or substantially reduce outbreak severity and duration.
Managing Recurrent Outbreaks
For individuals experiencing frequent cold sore episodes (more than six per year), suppressive therapy may be considered. This involves taking daily antiviral medication to reduce outbreak frequency and severity. Your healthcare provider can assess whether suppressive treatment would be appropriate based on your outbreak history and individual circumstances.
