Cold Sore Treatment
- Antiviral tablets
- Faster healing
- Prevention treatment
About Cold Sore Treatment
Cold sores (herpes labialis) are caused by the herpes simplex virus. Our Irish-registered GPs can prescribe antiviral tablets to speed healing and reduce outbreak severity.
Available Treatments
Our GPs can prescribe:
- Aciclovir - tablets taken 5 times daily for 5 days
- Valaciclovir - more convenient dosing (twice daily)
- Famciclovir - alternative antiviral option
When to Start Treatment
Antivirals work best when started:
- At the first tingling/burning sensation
- Within 24 hours of outbreak starting
- Keep tablets at home for future outbreaks
Prevention Treatment
If you get frequent cold sores (6+ per year), suppressive therapy may help reduce outbreaks.
Three Simple Steps
Getting the treatment you need has never been easier.
Complete Questionnaire
Answer a few questions about your health and symptoms. Takes less than 5 minutes.
GP Review
An Irish registered GP reviews your request and approves treatment if suitable.
Get Your Treatment
Prescription sent to your chosen pharmacy or treatment delivered to your door.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about cold sore treatment.
Prescription antiviral tablets are more effective than over-the-counter creams. They work from inside the body to fight the virus.
Start treatment as soon as you feel the first tingling or burning. The sooner you start, the more effective treatment will be.
Yes, if you get frequent cold sores, we can prescribe tablets to keep at home so you can start treatment immediately at the first signs.
Antivirals treat the outbreak but don't cure the virus which remains dormant in your body. Outbreaks may still occur in the future.