Abreva® FAQs

When you’re up against a cold sore, having answers to your questions gives you more power to knock them out — cold.

Abreva Basics

Q.What does it look like?

A:Abreva comes in a convenient 2.0-gram tube so that you can easily carry it with you and apply as directed. Abreva is a smooth, white cream that has no smell or taste. It dries clear so that it can be your secret defense against cold sores.

Q.How is it packaged?

A:Abreva comes in a tube or pump, that you can easily carry with you so at the first sign of a cold sore, you can start fighting. Abreva is a smooth, white cream that dries clear. It won't sting or burn and it has no smell or taste. It can be your strongest defense and secret weapon against cold sores. The outside package is composed of polypropylene (a type of plastic).

Q.How do I use the pump?

A: After you open a new pump, press the pump completely about 6-8 times to get the first dose. The pump dispenses the appropriate amount of product with each pump. Apply Abreva with a cotton swab or your fingers, but do wash your hands before and after applying the cream. Rub it in gently, and the cream will dry clear.

Q.Did the Abreva tube packaging change?

A:In April 2006, The Abreva package changed to allow consumers to see the tube through the packaging. The package no longer contains a cardboard carton as the tube is now displayed behind a plastic bubble.

Q.What is the difference between the tube and pump?

A:Both the Abreva tube and pump use the same 10% Docosanol formulation. The difference is in the device used to dispense Abreva. The tube is great for use at home, and the pump offers a clean and easy way to carry your Abreva with you on the go so you’re ready to fight at the first tingle.

Q. Where can I buy Abreva?

A: Abreva is available in the cough & cold or oral care section of your local drug, discount or grocery store. Ask your pharmacist for more information and help in finding Abreva. For special savings on Abreva, click here. Or,buy now online.

Q. How is Abreva different from other cold sore products?

A: Abreva is the only over-the-counter cold sore medication approved by the FDA to shorten healing time and the duration of symptoms. Abreva contains 10% Docosanol, a unique patented active ingredient that, during a cold sore outbreak, helps to protect healthy cells from the cold sore infection. Click here to learn more about how Abreva is different than the others.

Q.Is Docosanol an antiviral?

A: Docosanol is not classified as an antiviral. Typically, nucleoside analogues, such as penciclovir (Denavir®) and acyclovir (Zovirax®), are considered the topical antivirals that are used for herpes labialis. They are classified as antivirals because their activity occurs in virus-infected cells. Docosanol's mode of action is different. Its mode of action takes place only in healthy cells, where it works on the cell membrane to help inhibit the ability of the virus to fuse with the cell membrane. This makes the virus less likely to enter the cell to begin the process of infection.

Q.How much cream dispenses with each pump?

A:The pump is designed to dispense the right amount of cream for one application of Abreva.

Q. How long will a tube of Abreva last for the average cold sore sufferer? How many applications can I expect to get out of one 2.0 gram tube of Abreva?

A:It is estimated that a tube of Abreva will last the average cold sore sufferer though 2-3 episodes (a year's supply for the average sufferer). However, because the duration of cold sores varies among different individuals, your results may vary. It is important to apply Abreva according to the package directions and recommended dosage (avoid trying to "stretch" the product to last for an extra episode).

When to use Abreva

Q.When should I use Abreva?

A: For best results, start fighting with Abreva the moment you feel a cold sore coming on. Learn what triggers your cold sore and how to recognize the signs of a tingle, redness, bump or itch so you can start to fight as soon as you feel it. Abreva should be used five times a day for up to 10 days.Click here to learn more about how to use Abreva.

Q. If I feel a tingle, but the cold sore hasn't erupted yet. Can I use this?

A:Yes. Begin using Abreva at the first sign of a cold sore for best results.

Q.Will this help if I start to apply it after the blister has developed?

A: Best results are seen when Abreva is used early in a cold sore episode. Once your cold sore has reached the stage of forming an ulcer or even a crust, then it may not be as effective in shortening healing time.

Q.Will the scab on my cold sore interfere with the absorption of the product? Can I peel the scabs on my cold sore?

A: Once the scab has formed, your cold sore is nearing its stage of complete healing. Keep applying the product for the 10 days, or until the scab has fallen off, whichever is the earliest. We do not recommend peeling the scab. You could damage the new, delicate skin underneath. Let the scab fall off naturally.

Q. What if I miss a dose?

A:Apply a dose as soon as you remember and then reapply the next dose on schedule.

How to use Abreva

Q.How do I use Abreva?

A:Apply five times a day until healed for up to 10 days. Apply with a Q-tip or with fingers, but do wash hands before and after applying the cream. Use an ample amount to completely cover the sore and the area around the sore for best results. Per package directions, rub in gently, but completely. Abreva dries clear once rubbed in.Click here to learn more about how to use Abreva.

Q.How should I apply this? Should I use my fingertip or a Q-tip? How much should I apply each time?

A: Apply enough to completely cover your cold sore and follow the directions on the package. If you use your finger to apply, make sure to wash your hands before and after applying Abreva.

Q.Do I need to apply this product around the clock or only during waking hours? How far apart should the applications be spaced?

A: Applying five times a day during waking hours — approximately every 3-4 hours.

Q.How often can I reapply?

A:Abreva should be applied 5 times/day, until healed. Apply Abreva after you wash your face.

Q.Can it be used to treat genital herpes, canker sores or shingles? Can I use this on the cracks that form in the corners of my mouth?

A:No. Abreva is indicated only for the treatment of cold sores caused by Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1.

Q. How thin or thick of a coating should I apply?

A:Use an ample amount to completely cover your cold sore and the area around your cold sore for best results. Per package directions, rub in gently, but completely.

Q.Who can use it? Is it safe?

A:Abreva can be used by adults and children over 12. Abreva is considered safe and well tolerated. Abreva should be used five times a day for up to 10 days. And because cold sores are contagious, you won't want to share your tube of Abreva with others. Doing so may spread the infection.

Q. Does the tube or pump contain any latex?

A: . The tube and pump does not contain or latex.

Q.Can I use longer than 10 days?

A: No. It is not recommended for use longer than 10 days. Also, it could be the sign of a more serious infection so you should contact your health care professional for advice.

Q.Why should I call my doctor if my cold sore has not healed in 10 days?

A:You should contact your doctor if your cold sore has not healed within 10 days while using Abreva. If an infection has not healed after this length of time, then getting the doctor to look at it will ensure that you receive an updated diagnosis and possibly, additional treatment.

Q.Can I apply cosmetics on top of it?

A: Yes. Cosmetics, such as lipstick, may be applied over Abreva. However, use a separate applicator, like a cotton swab, to apply cosmetics or sunscreen over an unhealed cold sore to avoid spreading the infection. For best results, remove any cosmetics prior to applying/reapplying Abreva.

Q.Can I use it in conjunction with other topical products (i.e., Carmex®, Blistex®, etc.)?

A: We have not studied the use of Abreva with other topical cold sore products and do not know whether or not using two products together will interfere with Abreva's effectiveness.

Q.Can I use it if I am pregnant or breast-feeding?

A: Testing has not been conducted with Abreva on pregnant or breast-feeding women. Consult your physician.

Q. Your label warning says to get medical help if the product is swallowed. What happens if I lick my lips and swallow some? Will this harm me?

A: This statement is precautionary in the event that someone swallows all of the tube contents. The amount ingested by licking the affected area will be minimal and should not give cause for concern. If in doubt, always ask your physician's advice.

Q.Can I kiss someone while a cold sore is on my lips?

A:Since cold sores are contagious, kissing should be avoided during a cold sore outbreak. Click here to learn more about spreading the cold sore virus.

Q.What can I expect to happen if I get some Abreva on the skin around the sore?

A:Abreva is safe to apply on both normal skin and cold sores. In fact, applying Abreva both on and around the sore is good as it will ensure both the obvious cold sore and areas still developing are adequately treated.

Q. Why can't I apply this inside my mouth or nose?

A:Mucous membranes inside the mouth and nose are very sensitive and you could experience some irritation of the membranes. If your cold sore spreads upward to involve the outside of the nostrils, then Abreva can be safely applied. It is not recommended that you insert Abreva inside the nose.

Q. What happens if I actually get some in my mouth?

A: Small amounts that get just inside the lip/mouth junction by the cold sore should not be a problem. However, if you accidentally place a large amount of cream into your mouth, then remove the cream and rinse out your mouth with water.