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  3. Treatment Overview

Cold Sore Treatment Overview

Find the right care and learn about different treatments.
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Care Plan

1

First steps to consider

  • Cold sores can usually be treated at home with OTC medicated antiviral creams and ointments applied directly to the sores.
  • Taking OTC pain medication like Tylenol can also help with the pain.
See home treatments
2

When you may need a provider

  • If you frequently get cold sores, you may want to see a healthcare provider, who may prescribe an antiviral medication.
See care providers

Emergency Care

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Go to the ER if you have swelling of the lips or tongue that causes trouble breathing or swallowing.

The suppliers listed follow Buoy’s clinical guidelines, but listing the suppliers does not constitute a referral or recommendation by Buoy. When you click on the link and/or engage with these services Buoy will be compensated.

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All treatments for cold sore
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Every treatment shown on this site is evaluated by our medical team and must pass Buoy's clinical review.
Learn how we choose treatments
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FAQ

Frequently asked questions