That familiar tingle on the lip usually means a cold sore is on its way, and the first few days are when antiviral treatment is meant to be used. Cold sore treatment at a pharmacy covers antiviral creams, a single-dose tablet and patches, and none of them needs a prescription. This article explains what each option does, how to stop the virus spreading to other people, and the situations where a cold sore should be seen by a doctor rather than treated at home.
Key Takeaways
- Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus and usually clear within about 2 weeks.
- Antiviral creams work best when started at the first tingle or the first raised spot.
- A one-dose antiviral tablet treatment can be supplied by the pharmacist, with no script needed.
- Cold sores are contagious even when no blister is showing.
- A cold sore near the eye needs a doctor straight away.
Why cold sores keep coming back
Cold sores are small, blister-like spots in or around the mouth, sometimes called oral herpes. Once you have caught the virus it stays in the body, resting quietly until something wakes it. Common triggers include:
- tiredness
- periods
- emotional upset or stress
- skin damage from strong sun, cold or wind
- another illness, such as a cold
Most cold sores heal on their own within 2 weeks without scarring. Treatment cannot cure the virus, but it can ease the discomfort and help an outbreak settle.
Cold sore treatment at a pharmacy
According to healthdirect, the main options are:
Antiviral creams
Antiviral creams such as aciclovir are used in the first few days of an outbreak, ideally when you first feel the tingle or notice a raised spot. They are sold without a prescription in pharmacies and some other shops. Dab the cream on gently rather than rubbing it in, and wash your hands afterwards.
A single-dose antiviral tablet
For adults who have had cold sores before, a single dose of antiviral tablets can be supplied by the pharmacist without a prescription. Because it is a Pharmacist Only Medicine, expect a few questions about your health and your cold sore history first, so they can check the tablets are right for you.
Patches and soothing products
Cold sore patches sit over the sore, covering it while it heals, and some creams are designed to ease symptoms rather than act on the virus. Antiseptic ointments such as povidone-iodine are another option. For pain, ice or paracetamol may help. The pharmacist can help you choose between these, particularly if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or buying for a child.
Feel a tingle starting? Pop in and ask the pharmacist which treatment suits you.
Stopping the virus spreading
The virus passes on through kissing and skin contact, and through shared items. Cold sores are highly contagious, even when blisters are not present. While you have one:
- avoid kissing and oral sex
- wash your hands after touching the sore or applying treatment
- keep your own cup, cutlery, towel, flannel, toothbrush and razor
- never share a tube of cold sore cream
Take extra care around babies, young children, pregnant people and anyone with a weak immune system, because the virus can make them seriously unwell.
When a cold sore needs a GP
Most cold sores are a nuisance rather than a danger, but some need medical care. See a doctor if:
- the sore is near your eye (go straight away)
- a newborn baby may be infected
- you have a weakened immune system, for example from HIV or cancer treatment
- the sore is large, deep or very painful
- there are signs of infection, such as spreading redness, pus or a fever
- it is not healing, is spreading or there is more than one
- you get cold sores often
Not every sore on the lip is a cold sore. If you are unsure what a spot is, the pharmacist can take a look and tell you whether it needs a doctor; our post on skin conditions covers other common problems the pharmacy can advise on.
Getting advice at Your Community Pharmacy
You do not need an appointment to talk to the pharmacist about a cold sore. Walk in during opening hours, describe how it started and how long you have had it, and mention any medicines you take. Our guide to minor ailments covers other everyday problems the pharmacist can help with. Spotted the same cream for less at another store? Our price match means you can ask us to match it. If you cannot get out, free local delivery can bring treatments to you if we deliver to your street.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does lysine prevent cold sores?
Lysine, an amino acid, has been promoted for preventing cold sores, but healthdirect notes there is no evidence that it works.
How do I protect a new baby from my cold sore?
Avoid kissing the baby and wash your hands well before handling them. An infection in a newborn should be managed by a doctor, so seek medical advice promptly if you are worried.
Can I stop cold sores coming back?
You cannot remove the virus, but you can reduce triggers. Protect your lips from sunburn and harsh wind, and try not to get run down. If outbreaks are frequent, talk to your GP. Our FAQs cover other questions about visiting the pharmacy.
Start early and know your limits
The best cold sore treatment from a pharmacy is the one you start early: an antiviral cream or a single-dose tablet at the first tingle, plus good hygiene to protect the people around you. Anything near the eye, in a newborn or in someone with a weak immune system goes to a doctor. For everything else, ask the pharmacist. Browse our other health services, or contact us with a question.
Visit Your Community Pharmacy at Shop 3, 1 Kalinya St, Newport, or call for advice on cold sore treatment.