Best Over The Counter Medicine For Fever Blisters
Fever blisters, also known as cold sores, are small fluid-filled blisters that usually appear on or around the lips. They are caused by the herpes simplex virus and can be very painful and uncomfortable. In most cases, fever blisters will heal on their own within a week or two, but there are over-the-counter medications that can help to reduce the symptoms and speed up the healing process. In this article, we will discuss the best over-the-counter medicine for fever blisters.
1. Abreva
Abreva is an FDA-approved cream that is specifically designed to treat fever blisters. It contains docosanol, which works by blocking the virus from entering healthy cells and replicating. Abreva should be applied to the affected area as soon as possible after the first sign of a fever blister, such as tingling or itching. It should be applied five times a day until the blister has healed. Studies have shown that Abreva can reduce the healing time of fever blisters by up to two days.
2. Zovirax
Zovirax is another FDA-approved cream that is used to treat fever blisters. The active ingredient in Zovirax is acyclovir, which works by stopping the herpes simplex virus from replicating. Zovirax should be applied to the affected area every four hours, up to five times a day, until the blister has healed. Studies have shown that Zovirax can reduce the healing time of fever blisters by up to three days.
3. Carmex
Carmex is a popular lip balm that contains menthol, camphor, and phenol. These ingredients work together to provide pain relief and help to heal fever blisters. Carmex can be applied to the affected area as often as needed to relieve pain and discomfort. It can also be used as a preventive measure by applying it to the lips before exposure to sunlight or other triggers that can cause fever blisters.
4. Herpecin-L
Herpecin-L is a lip balm that contains lysine, an amino acid that has been shown to help prevent the herpes simplex virus from replicating. It also contains dimethicone, which helps to protect the lips from further irritation. Herpecin-L can be applied to the affected area as often as needed to relieve pain and discomfort. It can also be used as a preventive measure by applying it to the lips before exposure to sunlight or other triggers that can cause fever blisters.
5. Lysine supplements
Lysine is an amino acid that has been shown to help prevent the herpes simplex virus from replicating. Lysine supplements can be taken orally to help prevent fever blisters from occurring. The recommended dosage is 1,000 mg per day. It is important to note that lysine supplements should not be taken by individuals with kidney or liver disease, pregnant or breastfeeding women, or individuals taking certain medications.
Conclusion
There are many over-the-counter medications that can help to treat and prevent fever blisters. Abreva and Zovirax are both FDA-approved creams that work by stopping the herpes simplex virus from replicating. Carmex and Herpecin-L are lip balms that can provide pain relief and help to heal fever blisters. Lysine supplements can be taken orally to help prevent fever blisters from occurring. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any medication or supplement.