[eljay1103]

I would like to know any remedies for cold sores or what medications work the best... Is it possible to get rid of a cold sore in 2 days? Even if its really big and yucky! :(

[J_9]

Rarely if ever is one able to get rid of a cold sore in 2 days. Abreva works very well in treatment of cold sores. It is a little expensive for a very small tube, but I have found it very effective.

[eljay1103]

Yea that's what Im using now but how long does it take to work?? Im soooo desperate!

[J_9]

It works on my son in about 4 days to a week. Unfortunately that is the fastest way that I currently know of. Cold sores are a form of a herpes virus... it is a virus so it must run it's course.

[Xrayman]

My wife has terrible problems with cold sores-she takes Famvir which is actually for genital herpes-you HAVE to get the doctor to prescribe it as it is not really for oral herpes.

Then there is the situation where you r record will say you have genital herpes! Oh well. However it will prevent an outbreak if taken when the tingle comes. If the attack is severe, then it will take 2 to three days to clear.

[Cinnabar]

The best thing to do is to pay attention to the symptoms that an outbreak is happening. Begin treatment as soon as that tingly/burning sensation appears. If your outbreaks are bad, consider seeing your PCP about possibly getting a prescription for acyclovir or valacyclovir.

[eljay1103]

What's Acyclovir? Like a pill? Something you have to take all the time or just when the outbreak comes?

[Cinnabar]

Whats Acyclovir?? like a pill?? something you have to take all the time or just when the outbreak comes??

It's an antiviral medication (yes, in pill form). For cold sores (generally HHV-1), you would only take it when you first feel the symptoms. Genital herpes is often treated with a daily regimen.