# Cold sore tablet pathway guide

Canonical page: https://www.sanarahealth.co.uk/medicines/cold-sore/cold-sore-antiviral-tablets/

Updated: 2026-09-08. AI-assisted editorial information; not clinically reviewed.

Sanara is an independent UK comparison and affiliate platform. The provider handles assessment, prescribing and supply.

## The short answer

A clinician may consider oral antiviral treatment for severe or recurrent cold sores. It is different from buying a pharmacy cream for an occasional episode. Agree when to start and which unusual symptoms need assessment.

## Understanding your options

Cold sores often begin with tingling before blisters appear. They are contagious until fully healed and commonly settle without prescription treatment.

Pharmacy creams and patches can help. A clinician may consider oral treatment for particularly severe or frequent episodes.

## Who may be suitable?

Get advice if symptoms are unusual, you have a weakened immune system or the sore is large or very painful.

## Side effects and precautions

Avoid kissing babies and avoid oral sex while a cold sore is active. Wash hands after touching the area.

## When to get help

Symptoms close to the eye, eye pain or vision changes require prompt assessment.

For a life-threatening emergency, call 999. For urgent advice, contact the appropriate local NHS service.

## Progress and follow-up

Seek review if a sore has not begun healing within about ten days. Early use matters for some creams.

## Questions to ask

Does the severity or frequency of my episodes justify an oral treatment plan?

- Is a topical option appropriate for this episode?

- When should I start treatment for recurrent symptoms?

- Does the frequency of outbreaks warrant a review?

## Treatment approaches

### Antiviral cold-sore tablets

A clinician may consider oral antiviral treatment for severe or recurrent cold sores. It is different from buying a pharmacy cream for an occasional episode. Agree when to start and which unusual symptoms need assessment.

Full guide: https://www.sanarahealth.co.uk/medicines/cold-sore/cold-sore-antiviral-tablets/

### Aciclovir 5% cold sore cream

Aciclovir cold-sore cream is a topical option, most useful when started at the early signs as directed. It is not an eye product or a substitute for oral treatment when that is clinically needed. Check the pack for the permitted application area.

Full guide: https://www.sanarahealth.co.uk/medicines/cold-sore/aciclovir-cold-sore-cream/

## Costs

The provider confirms current prices. Include assessment, supply, follow-up, delivery and repeat charges. This guide does not provide a guaranteed quote.

Cost planner: https://www.sanarahealth.co.uk/tools/treatment-cost/

## Sources

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cold-sores/

https://assets.pharmacyregulation.org/files/2024-11/how-to-keep-safe-when-getting-medicines-or-treatment-online.pdf