Page 118 - Community pharmcy practice E-book 2025
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02/11/2025, 00:29
Cold Sore Treatment
Topical OTC Antiviral (FDA-approved)
The primary over-the-counter (OTC) topical antiviral for cold sores is docosanol 10%.
Topical OTC Antivirals (in UK)
Acyclovir
Penciclovir
Antiviral drugs should be used at the prodrome phase: first sign of a cold sore; tingling,
redness, itching, or bump
They decrease healing time and duration of pain
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