Herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus, a virus that can cause small blisters and sores to erupt in the mucous membranes of the mouth, lips and genitalia. One form of herpes, called herpes labialis, typically effects the oral cavity. Because the herpes virus can hide inside cells indefinitely, it cannot be cured. As a result, most herpes treatments work to limit outbreaks and make the symptoms less severe.
Acyclovir
Acyclovir is one of the oldest herpes medications around. It works by stopping the virus from replicating in cells that it has infected, which helps keep the virus in check, limiting or preventing outbreaks. Acyclovir can be taken either in pill form or applied as a topical cream to the affected area. Acyclovir is most effective when it is taken at the very beginning of an outbreak (before the appearance of cold sores) in order to help attack the virus before it causes a flare up.
Penciclovir
Penciclovir is another medication that can be used to treat herpes labialis. It is often manufactured in an altered form, called famciclovir, which is better absorbed by the body and then turned into penciclovir. This medication works similarly to acyclovir, but it stays in the body for longer so it doesn't require as frequent dosing.
Valacyclovir
Valacyclovir is actually a modified form of acylcovir that has been chemically altered so that it is absorbed better into the body and is metabolized more slowly, which makes it more potent. Fewer--and smaller--doses of this medication are required as compared with acyclovir.
Home Treatments
Herpes labialis can usually be fought off by the body's immune system within one to two weeks after a flare up. As a result, sometimes the most effective treatment is just to keep the sores clean and dry to prevent bacterial infection. Wash the sores daily with warm soapy water and clean them with an antiseptic rinse.
