Cold Sore Treatment Online | Walgreens Virtual Healthcare

Cold sores are commonly caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV‑1). Many people are exposed to this virus in childhood or young adulthood, often from something as simple as sharing a drink, kissing a family member, or using the same utensils as someone who has the virus. Once a person becomes infected, the virus stays in the body for life. Some people with HSV-1 rarely get cold sores, while others may get them often.

Cold sores usually go away on their own within a few weeks. Prescription antiviral medications can help cold sores heal more quickly. They can also be used to decrease the number of recurrences in people who frequently get them.

While cold sores may go away on their own, if they are painful or bothersome getting treatment right away can help. Prescription antiviral medications work best when started as soon as symptoms appear. It is recommended that you see a healthcare provider if you have:

• Eczema
• Multiple cold sores, cold sores near the eye, or severe pain
• Cold sores lasting more than 2 weeks
• Six or more occurrences per year
• Are taking immune-suppressing medication (e.g., post-transplant, severe psoriasis)
• An immune-weakening condition (e.g., cancer, HIV)
• Recently been on an immune-suppressing treatment (e.g., chemotherapy, bone marrow transplant)

Even when taking a prescription antiviral medication such as valacyclovir to treat cold sores, the virus can still spread to others. A person is considered contagious until all the sores have scabbed over.

HSV-1, the virus that usually causes cold sores, is not typically classified as a sexually transmitted infection (STI). While the virus can spread through close personal contact, most people are infected through nonsexual contact with the saliva of someone who already has HSV-1.

HSV-1 is different from the herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), which causes most cases of genital herpes. Genital herpes is a STI.

Valacyclovir (Valtrex)

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to valacyclovir (e.g., anaphylaxis), acyclovir, or any of its components.

Warnings and Precautions

• Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura/hemolytic uremic syndrome (TTP/HUS) has occurred in people with advanced HIV-1 disease and also in allogeneic bone marrow transplant and renal transplants recipients receiving 8 grams per day of valacyclovir in clinical trials. Treatment should be discontinued if clinical signs, symptoms, and laboratory abnormalities consistent with TTP/HUS occur.
• Acute renal (kidney) failure may occur in elderly individuals (with or without reduced kidney function), those with kidney disease receiving more than the recommended dose of valacyclovir for their level of kidney function, individuals who are also taking medications that may be harmful to the kidneys, or who are not adequately hydrated. Valacyclovir should be used with caution in the elderly, and the dose should be reduced in patients with reduced kidney function.
• Serious central nervous system effects like agitation, hallucinations, confusion, delirium, seizures, and a condition of the brain may occur in adult and pediatric individuals (with or without decreased kidney function), and in those with kidney disease who are receiving more than the recommended dose of valacyclovir for their level of kidney function. These adverse effects are more likely to occur in the elderly. Stop taking valacyclovir and call your doctor right away if you notice these symptoms.
• Speak with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if valacyclovir will harm your unborn baby.
• Speak with your healthcare provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Valacyclovir may pass into your breast milk.

Common Side Effects

• Headache, nausea, and abdominal pain.

Significant Interactions

• There are no known serious interactions between valacyclovir and other medicines or foods. However, you should still check with your doctor or pharmacist before starting any new medication.