Herpes 1, also called herpes simplex virus-1, is the primary cause of oral herpes, also called cold sores. However, oral herpes can also be caused by herpes simplex virus-2, the primary cause of genital herpes. Once an individual contracts herpes, it remains in the body for life and can be transmitted to others via blood and other blister fluids. Treating oral herpes consists of minimizing the symptoms and reducing the frequency of outbreaks.
Home Treatment
Various methods can be attempted at home to reduce the pain and discomfort associated with cold sores, or herpes 1. These include ice, cold packs or over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, suggests KidsHealth.org.
Home remedies, such as baking soda mixed with a small amount of water to form a paste, can be applied to help dry the cold sores. However, these methods shouldn't be used on genital herpes caused by herpes simplex virus-1.
Prescription Topical Creams
Prescription topical creams work to reduce the frequency of herpes outbreaks as well as speed of healing time. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests these creams can be helpful but they are not entirely effective in eliminating outbreaks. These creams work best when applied at the very earliest sign of an outbreak, such as tingling or pain on the skin. Generic names of such creams include penciclovir, acyclovir and docosanol.
Oral Anti-Viral Pills
Oral anti-viral pills can be used for oral and genital herpes regardless of which virus is causing the infection. Common generic medicines include acyclovir, valacyclovir and famciclovir, states the University of Maryland Medical Center. These medicines are to be taken as prescribed, which typically means daily use or in staggered doses when an outbreak is suspected. With a staggered dose, an individual may take more than one pill several times a day at the first sign of an outbreak.
Over-the-Counter Anesthetics
Various over-the-counter topical anesthetics exist that may provide some pain relief states the University of Maryland Medical Center. Examples of such medicines include those made with benzocaine, camphophenique and several other lip and mouth products manufactured to aid in cold sore treatment by reducing pain and drying the sore.
Over-the-Counter Antivirals
One over-the-counter antiviral medication, docosanol topical, has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for improving the healing time of oral herpes, states Drugs.com. This medication should never be used on genital herpes caused by herpes simplex type-1. Users should follow the manufacturer instructions carefully, which indicate discussing proper dose amounts and frequency with a health care professional. The cream is often applied five times per day each day the cold sores exist. The University of Maryland Medical Center points out that users should apply the cream at the earliest sign of an oral herpes outbreak to maximize the potential benefits of the drug.
