Cold Sores Treatment

Get personalised cold sores treatment from Australian-registered doctors, tailored to your specific symptoms and outbreak patterns. Access prescriptions and ongoing support online, confidentially and at a time that suits you.

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How our doctors support cold sores treatment

Cold sores are painful blisters that often return without warning, disrupting your daily life. Our doctors understand the various triggers and symptoms you're dealing with, from tingling and blistering to discomfort during outbreaks. Through a telehealth consultation, they'll help you find the right cold sores treatment for your needs.

We offer:

Personalised consultations at a time that suits you

Support for outbreak management and recurrence prevention

Antiviral medication prescriptions where clinically appropriate

Guidance on triggers and lifestyle factors

Optional follow-up appointments to review your progress

Australian-registered doctors experienced in skin conditions

Cold Sores Treatment Online: How It Works

1.

Request a telehealth consultation

Let our doctors know why you’re requesting a consultation, create your InstantScripts account and complete your payment.

2.

A doctor will call you

Our doctors will review your request and call you to discuss any concerns or questions you may have.

3.

Receive your script

If the doctor decides treatment is necessary, an eScript will be sent to your phone for you to collect your medication from any pharmacy in Australia, or alternatively, we can arrange delivery.

1.

Request a telehealth consultation

Let our doctors know why you’re requesting a consultation, create your InstantScripts account and complete your payment.

2.

A doctor will call you

Our doctors will review your request and call you to discuss any concerns or questions you may have.

3.

Receive your script

If the doctor decides treatment is necessary, an eScript will be sent to your phone for you to collect your medication from any pharmacy in Australia, or alternatively, we can arrange delivery.

Getting cold sores treatment is simple with InstantScripts

You don't need to visit a clinic to get help with cold sores. With InstantScripts, you can speak to a doctor from home, work, or wherever you feel comfortable. Consultations are private and confidential. No waiting rooms and no need to take time off your day. If a prescription is appropriate, it can be sent directly to your phone as an eScript, ready for pickup or delivery.

Doctor assessment: A complete review of your symptoms, outbreak history, and any known triggers to guide the right treatment approach.

Antiviral prescriptions: Where clinically appropriate, your doctor can prescribe antiviral medications that may reduce the duration and severity of outbreaks.

Preventive advice: Clear advice on reducing the frequency of future outbreaks, including trigger management.

Follow-up care: If you need ongoing support or your treatment plan needs adjusting, you can book additional consultations at any time.

What are cold sores?

Cold sores are small, fluid-filled blisters that usually appear on or around the lips. They are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), most commonly HSV-1.

After the initial infection, the virus remains dormant and can reactivate, leading to recurring outbreaks. Common triggers include stress, fatigue, illness, sun exposure, and hormonal changes.

Cold sores are highly contagious, particularly when blisters are present, and typically heal within 7 to 10 days without scarring.

Can I get cold sore treatment online in Australia?

Yes. InstantScripts connects you with Australian-registered doctors who can assess your symptoms and prescribe antiviral medication where clinically appropriate. The entire process takes place online, so you don't need to visit a clinic. Consultations are available from 6am to midnight, every day of the week.

What medications are used to treat cold sores?

Antiviral medications such as valaciclovir and aciclovir are commonly prescribed for cold sores. These work best when taken early, ideally at the first sign of tingling or discomfort. Your doctor will determine which medication, dose, and duration is appropriate based on your individual circumstances. Some people benefit from suppressive therapy to reduce the frequency of outbreaks.

How quickly should I start treatment for a cold sore?

Starting antiviral treatment within the first 24 to 72 hours of symptoms appearing can help reduce the severity and length of an outbreak. If you notice early warning signs like tingling, itching, or redness around your lips, requesting a consultation promptly may lead to a better outcome. Your doctor can also discuss strategies for faster response in future episodes.

Are cold sores contagious?

Cold sores are contagious, especially when blisters are visible and weeping. The herpes simplex virus can spread through direct contact, such as kissing, or through shared items like utensils and towels. You can reduce the risk of transmission by avoiding close contact during outbreaks, washing your hands frequently, and not sharing personal items. The virus can occasionally shed even when no sores are present.

Can cold sores be prevented from coming back?

Though the herpes simplex virus can't be cured, you can reduce how often cold sores come back. Avoiding known triggers (such as excessive sun exposure, stress, and fatigue) can help. For people with frequent outbreaks, a doctor may recommend suppressive antiviral therapy. Speak to a doctor through InstantScripts to discuss whether this approach is suitable for you.

Can I get cold sore treatment while pregnant

Some antiviral medications can be used during pregnancy, but this depends on your individual circumstances and stage of pregnancy. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant so they can assess what is safe and appropriate. Your InstantScripts doctor will take your full medical history into account before recommending any treatment.

Do I need a prescription for cold sore antivirals?

In Australia, oral antiviral medications for cold sores require a prescription from a registered doctor. Over-the-counter topical creams are available from pharmacies, but they are generally less effective than prescription antivirals, particularly for moderate or recurring outbreaks.

Through InstantScripts, you can request an online prescription and have it sent directly to your phone as an eScript.

Sources

healthdirect.gov.au, "Cold sores"

Melbourne Sexual Health Centre (MSHC), "Herpes simplex"

The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP), clinical guidelines on orofacial herpes management

What are cold sores?

Cold sores are small, fluid-filled blisters that usually appear on or around the lips. They are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), most commonly HSV-1.

After the initial infection, the virus remains dormant and can reactivate, leading to recurring outbreaks. Common triggers include stress, fatigue, illness, sun exposure, and hormonal changes.

Cold sores are highly contagious, particularly when blisters are present, and typically heal within 7 to 10 days without scarring.