How Abreva Works
Abreva does more than just reduce the duration of cold sore symptoms. When used at the first tingle, Abreva can help heal your cold sore in 2½ days.* Abreva starts actively working as soon as you apply it. It gets to work penetrating into the skin to block the virus, protecting healthy cells. When used as directed, Abreva acts fast and heals fast.
What Are Cold Sores?
Cold sores, also known as fever blisters or oral herpes, are very common. They can be easy to recognize, as they usually appear as red bumps or blisters around the lips and mouth.
What Causes Cold Sores?
Cold sores are usually caused by the HSV-1 virus, which is often contracted early in childhood. Once you have the cold sore virus, it lies dormant until something triggers an outbreak and they’re reactivated.
Cold sores are contagious at all stages of the outbreak and are easily passed along through close personal contact, like kissing or sharing lip balms and drinks. The cold sore virus can also be transferred by touching, so be sure to wash your hands after treatment.
What Happens When You Get A Cold Sore?
For the majority of people, HSV-1 remains inactive throughout their lives and they may never know they have the virus. Around 1 in 4 people will experience recurrent infections.† This occurs when the cold sore virus 'wakes up,' infects the skin cells in or around the lip or mouth, and causes a visible and contagious sore. This usually happens after something has triggered the virus.
What Are Cold Sore Triggers?
Not everyone’s cold sore is triggered by the same thing. But there are common factors that may cause your cold sore outbreaks including: stress, fatigue, cold weather, excessive sunlight, hormonal changes, dental trauma and weakened immune system.
Q: What is Abreva Cream and how does it work?
A: Abreva Cream is a cold sore medicine that penetrates deep into the skin and starts to work immediately†† to block the virus. It is also the only nonprescription cold sore medicine approved by the FDA to shorten healing time, by getting to the source of your cold sore without stinging or burning. Abreva Cream is a smooth, white cream, and it has no smell or taste. You could heal your cold sore in 2½ days when you use Abreva Cream at the first sign of a cold sore.*
Q: What is the difference between the Abreva Cream tube and pump?
A: Abreva Cream comes in a tube or pump, and uses the same formula. The tube is perfect to use at home while the pump offers a clean and easy way to carry your Abreva Cream on the go, so you’re ready to start healing at the first tingle.
Q: How do I use the Abreva Cream pump?
A: To use the Abreva Cream pump for the first time, simply take the top off and press the pump 6 to 8 times to get the first dose. Each time after, just gradually press the pump for the amount you need. You can then apply the cream with a cotton swab or your finger by rubbing it in gently. Be sure to wash your hands before and after applying the cream.
Q: How much Abreva Cream is dispensed with each pump?
A: More cream may be needed when a cold sore is large and less as it gets smaller. Gradually press the pump until you get the amount that’s right for you. It is okay to include the area surrounding the cold sore so it is not wasted.
Q: Where can I buy Abreva Cream?
A: Abreva Cream is available in the cough and cold or oral care section of your local drug, discount, or grocery store. Ask your pharmacist for more information and help in finding Abreva Cream.
