Article: Docosanol (Abreva) is available in local pharmacies and may help to decrease the amount of time that the outbreak lasts. Read and follow the instructions on the packaging. Consult a doctor before using this medication if you are pregnant, nursing, or treating a child. These should be applied as soon as you feel the tingling, even before the blister has appeared. Apply it up to five times a day for five days, unless the packaging directs you to do otherwise. These medications are available in pharmacies without a prescription. Aciclovir Penciclovir These patches will hide the sore and they have a gel in them which will help the wound heal. This is beneficial both because of the medication inside, but also because covering the sore helps to prevent you from accidentally touching it and spreading the virus. The gel inside is called hydrocolloid. If it is your first time using this product, be sure to read the instructions in the packaging. Cold sores can be very uncomfortable and you may be able to get relief from topical creams that you can apply. Look for over-the-counter creams with the following ingredients: Lidocaine Benzocaine If topical painkillers weren't sufficient, you may want to try oral painkiller medications such as ibuprofen or paracetamol. Ibuprofen is not recommended for people with asthma or stomach ulcers. Children and teenagers should never take medicines containing aspirin. Consult your doctor before taking any medications if you are pregnant or nursing. Some come in the form of a pill while others are applied topically. If it is very severe, you may be given an injection. If home care did not work, your doctor may prescribe: Acyclovir (Xerese, Zovirax). This is usually prescribed at a dose of 400 mg three times per day or 200 mg fives times per day for 10 days. Famciclovir (Famvir). You will take 500 mg three times daily for seven to 10 days Penciclovir (Denavir). This comes in a 1% cream and is applied to affected lips and face. Valacyclovir (Valtrex). For the initial episode, use 1 g twice daily for 10 days. For recurrence, use 500 mg twice daily for three days. For a decrease in viral transmission, use 500 mg once daily.

What is a summary?
Use an over-the-counter cream. Try antiviral creams. Try a cold sore patch. Treat pain with topical creams. Reduce discomfort with oral painkillers. Take prescription antiviral medications.