Cold sores are caused by the herpes virus, and you can get aciclovir cream 5% over the counter at your pharmacy to help treat them.
You need to apply the aciclovir cream as soon as you get that tingle before a blister appears.
Aciclovir is an antiviral, so it should reduce how big or sore your cold sore will be.
Apply the cream 5 times a day for at least 5 days. If the cold sore has not completely healed, you can apply the cream for another 5 days.
Popular brands include Zovirax or Virasorb. You should only use these creams on the face or lips.
You can use cold sore patches, which are hydrocolloid blister plasters that keep moisture around the blister to stop the skin cracking and becoming more sore. These can help blisters heal faster too.
If your cold sore is not getting any better, see your doctor for advice.
Please note that you should ALWAYS speak to your pharmacist before you buy any medicines. And always read the information leaflet that comes with your medicine. This video is for educational purposes only, and not medical advice.
Published: September 2023
To review: September 2025
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