Cold sores

You can consult a health professional online and get the most efficient treatment according to your needs. Discussing with a doctor can help you understand the impact of cold sores on your health and what is the right approach to ease the symptoms.

On iLiveActive you can get yourself evaluated by answering a few queries. Our U.S. licensed physician will review your treatment request, follow up, and write an appropriate prescription.

500 mg to 1 g Valacyclovir oral tablet is advised twice a day. Medication should be started as soon as the first symptom appears. This oral tablet is available under the brand name Valtrex. Dosage and duration vary depending on the severity of cold sores and your health condition. Valacyclovir is associated with various adverse effects such as allergic reaction, harmful effects on the kidney and nervous system, hence doctors’ consultation is required before taking these drugs.

There is no permanent remedy for cold sores. Cold sores are managed with antiviral drugs such as oral acyclovir. These drugs are available on a prescription base only. Your doctor may recommend you to take antiviral medication on a regular basis to prevent outbreaks and complications.

Yes. By treating the infected person with suppressive medication, the transfer of infection can be prevented. Suppressive therapy with valacyclovir can avoid or delay up to 80% of recurrences, avoiding the transmission by 90%.

You may experience a few minor side effects like headache and nausea with these medications. Valacyclovir is associated with various adverse effects such as allergic reaction, harmful effects on the kidney and nervous system, hence doctors’ consultation is required before taking these drugs.