We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Health

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Using Acyclovir for a Cold Sore?

By Christina Edwards
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 12,342
Share

Acycovir is one of the most common prescription remedies for a cold sore, and like any medication, it has its pros and cons. It is very effective at getting rid of and preventing cold sores, but only if it is used a short time after symptoms appear. This treatment is only available by prescription, but many health insurance plans will cover it. Also, patients do not need to worry about many side effects or drug interactions when taking acyclovir for a cold sore, and it is considered to be safe for young children to use.

When taking acyclovir, a patient's symptoms will often clear up within a few days. Some studies also have shown this medication can help prevent frequent cold sore outbreaks, if taken daily. Since it helps stop viral shedding, or reproduction, acyclovir can also help prevent the spread of the virus from one person to another.

For acyclovir for a cold sore to be effective, however, it must be taken as soon as possible. Most medical professionals recommend that patients begin using this medication no more than three days after symptoms develop. If a patient begins taking it after that point, then it may take much longer for the cold sore to disappear.

In most areas, acyclovir is only legally available by prescription, which means that an individual visit a medical professional to get it. He must then fill the prescription at a pharmacy. Besides the cost of visiting the healthcare provider, the cost of the medication is often quite expensive. These costs, however, are often covered by health insurance plans. Acyclovir is also considered to be a relatively safe medication, even for small children.

There are very few side effects to this drug, and they are typically mild, although they can be uncomfortable. These side effects can vary depending on what type of acyclovir a patient uses: a topical medication or an oral one. Topical ointments containing this compound can cause redness, itching, burning, or stinging in the area. Oral pills, on the other hand, can cause headaches and mild gastrointestinal problems, like nausea and vomiting.

There are also very few dangerous drug interactions with this medication. Individuals taking certain epilepsy medications, like phenytoin or fosphenytoin, should consult a medical professional before using acyclovir. Also, certain medications used in the treatment of HIV and AIDS may also cause a dangerous reaction when mixed with this medication.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
By ZipLine — On Jul 28, 2013

Has anyone experienced hair loss or hair thinning from acyclovir? I've been taking it for the past three months. It does prevent cold sores, but I've developed hair loss.

By burcidi — On Jul 27, 2013

@SarahGen-- That's true but acyclovir is usually given to women who have genital herpes to avoid an outbreak during birth, because that would transmit the virus to the baby. I don't think I would take the risk of using an anti-viral medication during pregnancy just for a cold sore.

By SarahGen — On Jul 26, 2013

One great thing about acyclovir cold sore treatment is that it can be taken during pregnancy.

I had terrible cold sore breakouts when I was pregnant. I don't know why but I think the hormonal changes and changes with my immune system made me more vulnerable to cold sores. I was miserable with three large cold sores on my lips when I saw my doctor and found out that I can take acyclovir. It prevented new breakouts for the rest of my pregnancy, so I love this medication.

Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-are-the-pros-and-cons-of-using-acyclovir-for-a-cold-sore.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.