Prescribed by a pharmacist
Cold sores
Antiviral treatment for a cold sore works best when it is started in the first day, at the tingling stage. That is precisely when a doctor's appointment is hardest to get, and it is the reason a pharmacist can prescribe for this.
A cold sore announces itself before it appears. Most people who get them recognise the tingle, itch or tightness a day ahead of anything visible.
That warning is the treatment window. Antivirals shorten an outbreak most when they are started in it, which is worth knowing because the alternative is waiting for an appointment until the sore has already formed.
What to do
Come in at the first sign
The tingle counts. You do not need to wait until there is something to show us.
A brief assessment
Where it is, how often you get them, what has worked before, and what else you take.
Treatment if appropriate
That may be an oral antiviral, a topical one, or advice on managing this outbreak and treating the next one earlier.
A plan for next time
If you get them often, ask about keeping treatment on hand so the next one is treated within hours instead of days.
Worth mentioning to the pharmacist
Frequent outbreaks
Several a year may be worth a suppressive approach rather than treating each one as it arrives.
A known trigger
Sun, illness, stress and dental work are common ones. Knowing yours makes prevention possible.
A weakened immune system
Cold sores can be more serious, and are managed differently, if your immune system is suppressed.
A sore near the eye
This needs a physician, not a pharmacist, and it needs one promptly.
Common questions
Can a pharmacist prescribe for cold sores in Alberta?
Yes. A pharmacist can assess a cold sore and prescribe antiviral treatment, which means you can be treated on the day symptoms start.
When should I start treatment?
As early as you can, ideally at the first tingle before the sore appears. Antivirals shorten an outbreak most when they are started in the first day.
Are cold sores contagious?
Yes, particularly while the sore is blistering or weeping. Avoid kissing and sharing cups, cutlery, towels and lip products until it has healed, and wash your hands after touching it.
What brings them on?
Sunlight, illness, tiredness, stress, hormonal changes and dental work are common triggers. If you can identify yours, some outbreaks can be headed off.
Can I stop getting them?
The virus stays in the body, so there is no cure. If you get frequent outbreaks, ask the pharmacist about suppressive treatment, which can reduce how often they happen.