What Are the Treatments for Oral Herpes?

Oral herpes is caused most often by the herpes simplex virus, type 1 (HSV-1), though it can also be the result of HSV-2, the virus that causes genital herpes. Oral herpes are also referred to as fever blisters or cold sores, according to the American Social Health Association (ASHA). An estimated 50 to 80 percent of adults in America have had oral herpes at one time in their lives. You may be tempted to use over-the-counter cold sore medications to treat oral herpes, but ASHA experts report that this method may not always be the most successful route. Make an appointment with your doctor to discuss treatment for oral herpes.

Recognizing Prodome

• Prodome is the term used to describe a tingling feeling in the lip area that is sometimes a precursor to, or warning of, an oral herpes outbreak. Some topical medications used to treat oral herpes can be applied during this prodome "window" to reduce symptoms.

Quick Treatment

• An anti-viral drug called valacyclovir (brand name Valtrex) may be used as a quick, one-day treatment for oral herpes. This method calls for two 2 g dosages to be taken 12 hours apart.

Oral Medications

• Other anti-viral drugs such as famciclovir and acyclovir can be used to treat cold sores caused by the herpes virus. These drugs are normally given as part of a multi-day treatment regimen, as decided by your doctor.

Prescription Ointments

• Acyclovir and a second anti-viral medication called penciclovir are often prescribed in an ointment form to treat fever blisters. The ointment is applied directly to the sore.

Abreva

• Though over-the-counter cold sore creams and ointments may actually hinder the healing process of oral herpes sores, ASHA reports that Abreva is one over-the-counter brand of medication that speeds up the healing process.