Why does ABREVA work? Because it contains real medicine and is the only over-the-counter treatment that is FDA-approved. Unlike other products, like Blistex® Medicated or Neosporin LT™, ABREVA soothes and heals cold sores fast - much like a prescription. And it comes in either a handy tube or an easy-to-use pump, making it ready to go anywhere, anytime.