Cold Sore Medication

Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1. Cold sore medications are often the same as those used for other forms of the herpes virus and include Acyclovir and Valtrex.

Cold sore medications targeted directly at these sores include Abreva and Denavir. Abreva is a non-prescription cream that is applied to the sore five times a day until the sore is gone. This medication speeds healing, prevents the infection from spreading and reduces the duration of symptoms. You should begin using Abreva as soon as you notice a cold sore.

Denavir is a prescription cold sore medication. It is a cream that reduces the duration and severity of cold sores. Denavir usually takes four and a half days to clear up a cold sore.