Information on Abreva For Cold Sores
Abreva is manufactured by the Avanir Pharmaceutical Company, and while it cannot cure the herpes simplex virus that causes cold sores or prevent future outbreaks of cold sores, it has been shown to reduce the healing time and duration of symptoms for many cold sore sufferers.
Abreva is applied directly to the blister, and like all cold sore medications it works best when used at the first sign of an outbreak.
Once a person has been infected with the virus that causes cold sores, the infection will never go away.
It remains dormant in certain nerve cells of the body until an outbreak is triggered, which is when cold sores or fever blisters will develop.
While it is unclear exactly why an outbreak occurs, possible triggers include too much exposure to the UV rays found in sunlight, stress, and a weakened immune system brought on by a cold or flu or other illness.
As currently there is no cure for cold sores, using Abreva as a method of treatment does not kill the virus or prevent any future outbreaks.
In fact, Abreva is not even an antiviral medication, and does nothing to attack the virus.
Abreva works by rearranging the cell membranes of healthy, uninfected cells.
This limits the infection as it keeps the cold sore virus from infecting healthy cells.
When using Abreva, it should be applied up to 5 times per day.
Abreva is applied directly to the sore and should not be taken internally or applied to the inside of the mouth, gums, or tongue.
It should also not be used inside the nose.
You should begin the use of Abreva at the first sign of an outbreak, which is the distinctive tingling or burning sensation you feel before a fever blister appears.
Abreva is a cream-based medication that is applied with a fingertip.
If you put make-up over Abreva, you should use a disposable applicator to apply the make-up.
As with most drugs, Abreva comes with side effects, however they are minor and not everyone who uses Abreva experiences them.
The most common side effects are headaches, a stuffy or runny nose, and painful menstrual periods.
If you suffer from cold sore outbreaks and think Abreva may be the treatment you are looking for, speak with your healthcare provider for more information.
Although Abreva is available without a prescription, it is important that your doctor knows which treatments and medications you are using in case of any future problems.