Non-Prescription Fever Blister Medications
There is only one non-prescription
fever blister medication that is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA):
Abreva® (
docosanol). Abreva is available without a prescription and has been shown to decrease
symptoms of fever blisters and to help blisters heal more quickly.
Abreva works by altering the cell membranes (the outer covering) of lip cells. This helps to protect healthy cells from the herpes virus, helping the fever blister to heal faster.
Fever Blister Supplements
Lysine is a commonly used supplement for treating and
preventing fever blisters. It is available in a variety of forms, including oral forms (tablets, caplets, or powders), creams, and ointments.
Lysine is an amino acid found in many foods, including meat, cheese, and yogurt. Theoretically, it may work to treat or prevent fever blisters by "competing" with arginine, another amino acid that is essential for the fever blister virus to multiply. A few studies suggest that lysine may be an effective fever blister treatment. These studies tend to suggest that lysine may work better for preventing fever blisters, rather than treating them once they occur. It is important to note that these studies used the oral forms of lysine, not the creams or ointments.
At this time, it is not known what the best dose of lysine may be or exactly how it should be taken. As with any supplement, it is important to choose a brand of lysine that is made by a reputable manufacturer, as supplements are not as tightly regulated as medications. Your pharmacist can help you choose a lysine supplement from a well-known manufacturer.
Final Thoughts on Fever Blister Medication
Although there are no
fever blister cures, several options are available to help treat the condition. Some fever blister medicines are more costly than others, and some are more effective than others. Your healthcare provider can help you choose a fever blister medication that is right for you.
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