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Cold Sores (Herpes Labialis)

With cold sores, speed is everything. Prescription antivirals work best when started at the very first tingle — often before the blister even appears. Instead of waiting days to see a doctor, walk into our Orleans pharmacy: a licensed pharmacist can assess and prescribe antiviral treatment the same day, free with your Ontario health card.

Cold sores are small, fluid-filled blisters on or around the lips caused by the herpes simplex virus, which stays dormant in the body and reactivates with triggers like stress, illness, fatigue, hormonal changes, or strong sun.

Why early treatment matters

Many people feel a tingle, itch, or burn 12–24 hours before a cold sore appears. That window is the ideal time to start an antiviral — treatment begun at the tingle stage can shorten the outbreak, reduce pain, and sometimes stop the blister from fully forming. Cold sores heal on their own in 1–2 weeks, but for people who get them frequently or severely, prescription treatment makes a real difference.

Up to 80% of adults carry the herpes simplex virus, and 20–40% of those who've had a first infection go on to have recurrent cold sores. Frequent sufferers (6+ outbreaks a year) can ask about suppressive antiviral options.

Common signs and symptoms

Tingling, itching, or burning around the lips 1–2 days before an outbreak
Small, painful, fluid-filled blisters on or around the lips
Blisters that break, weep, and crust over within a few days
Occasional mild fever or swollen glands with a first infection

Treatments our Orleans pharmacist can prescribe

For your information only: in Ontario, our pharmacist can assess this condition and, when appropriate, prescribe from the medications listed below. This information is provided for educational purposes — it is not an offer to sell. These are treatments that require a pharmacist assessment, and the right option is chosen for you.

Antivirals: Acyclovir (Zovirax), Docosanol (Abreva), Famciclovir (Famvir), Valacyclovir (Valtrex)

Anti-inflammatory agents: Hydrocortisone

Self-care that helps

Docosanol cream (Abreva) — shortens healing when started early
Numbing/soothing lip treatments for pain and itch
Protective lip ointments (e.g., petrolatum) to stop cracking
Lip sunscreen SPF 30+ to help prevent sun-triggered outbreaks
Acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain

Browse related over-the-counter options in our Cold Sores (Herpes Labialis) self-care collection, or ask us in store — our pharmacists will point you to what actually helps.

How the assessment works

1. Walk in or callNo appointment or referral needed. Drop by our pharmacy on St-Joseph Blvd in Orleans during opening hours, or call ahead.

2. Private consultationA licensed pharmacist reviews your symptoms, health history and medications in a short, private assessment.

3. Prescription in handIf appropriate, we prescribe and fill your treatment on the spot — you leave with what you need.

Frequently asked questions

Which works better — Abreva or prescription antivirals?

Prescription oral antivirals (like valacyclovir) are generally more effective than over-the-counter docosanol, especially when started at the first tingle. A single-day, high-dose valacyclovir regimen is a common option our pharmacist can prescribe.

I get cold sores all the time. Can anything prevent them?

Yes. If you get six or more outbreaks a year, daily suppressive antiviral therapy can cut frequency dramatically. Sun-triggered outbreaks can also be reduced with SPF lip protection. Ask our pharmacist about options.

Are cold sores contagious?

Yes — most contagious when blisters are open and weeping. Avoid kissing, sharing utensils, razors, or towels until fully healed, and wash hands after touching the sore.

Is the pharmacist assessment covered by OHIP?

Yes. The minor ailment assessment is free with a valid Ontario health card. You only pay for the medication itself if one is prescribed, and that is often covered by your drug plan.

Do I need an appointment at your Orleans pharmacy?

No. Walk-ins are welcome during all pharmacy hours — Monday to Friday 9:00 AM–6:00 PM and Saturday 9:00 AM–3:00 PM. You can also call 613-824-3111 ahead of your visit.

When to see a doctor instead: See a health-care provider if the sore hasn't healed after 14 days, looks infected (increasing redness, swelling, or pus), spreads, or comes with fever or swollen glands — or if you have a condition or medication affecting your immune system.

Feel the tingle? Act now.

Skip the walk-in clinic wait. Our Orleans pharmacists assess and prescribe for cold sores — free with your Ontario health card.

Call 613 · 824 · 3111 Hours & directions

Serving Orleans and east Ottawa — Fallingbrook, Avalon, Chapel Hill, Queenswood Heights, Blackburn Hamlet, Navan & Cumberland. 2746 St-Joseph Blvd, Unit 100, Orleans, ON K1C 1G5.