Convenient access to cold Sore Treatments With GP24.

Our prescription service costs €25

This service is available to patients anywhere in Republic of Ireland.

Yes - this service is based on the same patient-doctor confidentiality that you would expect in a face-to-face consultation.

If you’re not entirely sure about your condition and have not had a previous prescription, it is recommended that you first chat with our doctor using either our Video Consultation or Phone consultation services first.

A cold sore, also known as a fever blister, is a small fluid-filled blister that usually appears around the lips or mouth. It is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) and is highly contagious. Cold sores often begin with a tingling or itching sensation before a blister forms. The sore typically goes through several stages—including blistering, oozing, and crusting—before healing within 7 to 10 days.

Cold sores are a common viral infection and can be triggered by factors such as stress, illness, sun exposure, or a weakened immune system. While they can be uncomfortable or unsightly, cold sores are usually mild and treatable with antiviral medications.

Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1), a highly contagious and widespread virus. It’s typically passed on through close skin-to-skin contact, often during childhood—commonly through kisses from someone who carries the virus. Many people contract HSV-1 early in life and may never experience symptoms, a condition known as asymptomatic or subclinical infection.

Once a person is infected, the virus remains in the body for life. However, not everyone will develop cold sores or experience repeat outbreaks. Some may carry the virus without ever knowing it.

Yes, there are two main types of the herpes simplex virus: HSV-1 and HSV-2. HSV-1 (herpes simplex virus type 1) is the most common cause of cold sores, responsible for over 90% of cases. It typically affects the lips and mouth area.

HSV-2 (herpes simplex virus type 2) is usually associated with genital herpes, but it can also cause cold sores if it spreads to the oral area through close contact. Both types are highly contagious and can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact.

Cold sore symptoms can vary, and in many cases, herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) infections go unnoticed. The virus can still be spread even when there are no visible cold sores or blisters.

When symptoms do occur, they may include tingling, itching, burning, or numbness around the lips or mouth—often appearing hours before any visible signs. This is followed by the development of small, fluid-filled blisters that can break open, ooze, and then crust over as they heal.

Cold sore outbreaks are usually mild and self-resolving, with most healing naturally within 7 to 10 days.

Cold sore flare-ups can be caused by a variety of physical and emotional triggers, especially in people who already carry the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1). Common cold sore triggers include:

• Being unwell, particularly with a cold, flu, or fever

• Sun and wind exposure – protect your lips with a daily high SPF lip balm or moisturiser

• Stress and emotional strain

• Fatigue or lack of sleep

• Weakened immune system

• Skin irritation or damage to the lips, such as dryness or cracking

• Hormonal changes, especially during menstruation

Identifying your personal triggers can help you take steps to prevent future outbreaks and manage symptoms early.

Yes, it's important to take extra care when you have an active cold sore, as the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) is highly contagious—especially through close contact.

You should avoid kissing or close physical contact, particularly with:

• Babies and young children – cold sores can pose a serious risk of neonatal herpes, a rare but potentially life-threatening condition

• People with weakened immune systems – such as those undergoing medical treatments or living with chronic illnesses, as HSV infections can be more severe

To reduce the risk of spreading the virus, wait until the cold sore has completely healed before resuming close contact.

Cold sores can be managed with a variety of effective treatments designed to reduce symptoms, speed up healing, and prevent future outbreaks. Common cold sore treatment options include:

• Antiviral creams or ointments: These are applied directly to the sore and work best when used at the first sign of symptoms, such as tingling or itching.

• Oral antiviral medications: Prescription tablets like aciclovir or valaciclovir can help shorten the duration of an outbreak and are especially useful for frequent or severe cold sores.

• Cold sore patches: These provide a protective barrier over the sore, promote healing, and reduce the risk of spreading the virus.

• Pain relief treatments: Over-the-counter creams, gels, or painkillers can help soothe discomfort, especially during the blistering stage.

• Lip balms with SPF: Regular use of a moisturising lip balm with sun protection can help prevent future outbreaks triggered by sun exposure.

If you experience frequent or severe cold sore outbreaks, or if your flare-ups are triggered by specific situations (like sun exposure or stress), prescription antiviral medication may be recommended to help manage symptoms.

These medications work best when taken at the first sign of a cold sore, such as tingling, itching, or discomfort around the lips. While antiviral tablets won’t cure the virus, they can:

• Reduce the length and severity of the outbreak

• Speed up healing time

• Lower the risk of spreading the virus to others

We can provide a prescription for cold sore treatment, including:

• Treatment for an active outbreak

• Preventive treatment ahead of known triggers or events (e.g. holidays, stressful periods)

All prescriptions are subject to a clinical review to ensure the treatment is suitable for you.

Antiviral treatments for cold sores are generally safe but may cause some side effects in certain individuals. Common side effects include:

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, or stomach discomfort

• Headaches

• Skin rash

• Increased sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity)

• Dizziness

• Fatigue or tiredness

Stop taking the medication and seek medical advice immediately. You can also contact us for follow-up support or guidance from one of our GPs.

No prior prescription is necessary. However, you will need to complete a health assessment so that one of our doctors can safely prescribe the most suitable contraceptive for you.

Simply complete our secure online medical questionnaire. One of our registered Irish doctors will review your submission and, if appropriate, issue a prescription which can be sent directly to your preferred pharmacy.

Once your medical questionnaire is submitted, prescriptions are typically issued within 24 hours.

(Please note this may vary on weekends)

Yes, you can request a repeat prescription for cold sore antiviral medication through GP24.ie. You’ll need to complete a short online medical questionnaire, which will be reviewed by one of our registered GPs. If it’s clinically appropriate, your prescription will be issued and sent directly to your preferred pharmacy for easy collection.

Yes. To ensure your safety, you’ll need to complete a confidential health questionnaire, which will be reviewed by a Doctor before any prescription is issued.

Your medical information is reviewed only by Irish Medical Council Registered Doctors and is handled in line with GDPR and Irish data protection laws.

Your prescription will be sent electronically via the Healthmail system to the Irish pharmacy of your choice - you can nominate any pharmacy in Ireland to receive your prescription