Pharmacy Clinical Pearl: Cold Sores

Insight

• Cold sores are tiny, fluid-filled blisters on and around your lips. These blisters are often grouped together in patches.
• After the blisters break, a scab forms that can last several days.
• Cold sores usually heal in 2 to 3 weeks without leaving a scar.
• Cold sores spread from person to person by close contact, such as kissing.
• They’re usually caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 and, less commonly, herpes simplex virus type 2.
• Symptoms include tingling, itching, blisters, oozing, and crusting.
• Treatement options may include acyclovir (Zovirax), valacyclovir (Valtrex), famciclovir, and penciclovir (Denavir).
• Other treatment options may include lip balms, applying cold compress, rest, and pain relievers.