Basically, there are three distinct categories of cold sore product groups. All work differently, and not all healing claims are supported by relevant data. 1,2

OTC Palliative Care Products Primarily work at the skin surface only. Symptomatic support with no impact on disease healing cycle. OTC Cell Entry Virus Blockers Inhibits penetration of viral DNA into healthy lip cell. The only OTC class to have FDA approval and to have shown clinically, a significant positive impact on the disease healing cycle. Prescription Antivirals Inhibit DNA polymerase in cells where viral penetration has occurred. They have a positive impact on the disease healing cycle.

1. Goodman & Gillman 10th Edition 2001 p:1316.
2. Sacks SL et al. Clinical efficacy of topical docosanol 10% cream for herpes simplex labialis: a multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2001; 45:222-230.

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