When to Use Abreva

Find answers to frequently asked questions about Abreva® Cream, cold sore treatment instructions, and much more. 

  • When should I use Abreva® Cream?

    For best results, it’s a good idea to learn what triggers your cold sore and how to recognize the signs–a tingle, redness, bump, or itch–so you can start to fight it as soon as you feel it. Use Abreva® Cream at the first sign of a cold sore and continue to use it five times a day for up to 10 days. You could knock out your cold sore in 2½ days when you use Abreva® Cream at the first sign of a cold sore.*

    *Median healing time 4.1 days. 25% of users healed in 2.5 days.

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  • If I feel a tingle, but the cold sore hasn’t erupted yet, can I use Abreva® Cream?

    For best results, begin using Abreva® Cream at the first sign of a cold sore. Based on laboratory studies, Abreva® Cream penetrates deep and starts to work immediately to block the cold sore virus.

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  • Will Abreva® Cream help if I start to apply it after the blister has developed?

    Best results are seen when Abreva® Cream 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. 

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  • Can I peel the scabs on my cold sore?

    Once the scab has formed, your cold sore is almost completely healed. Keep applying Abreva® Cream for 10 days or until the scab has fallen off, whichever comes first. Do not peel the scab as you could damage the new, delicate skin underneath. Instead, let the scab fall off naturally.

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  • What if I miss a dose of Abreva® Cream?

    If you miss a dose of Abreva® Cream, just apply a dose as soon as you remember and then reapply the next dose on schedule. Abreva® Cream should be applied five times a day, until healed.

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  • When should I use Abreva® Rapid Pain Relief?

    If you are experiencing a painful cold sore outbreak, use Abreva® Rapid Pain Relief to temporarily relieve pain and itching associated with cold sores.