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Cold Sores

Cold sores are common infections caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1). Most people get infected during childhood, and more than half of Americans ages 14 to 49 have cold sores.

The bad news is: cold sores are not curable.

The good news is: outbreaks can be treated with medication.

Treatment & Pricing

Wedding day coming up? Big vacation planned? A pill a day keeps the outbreaks away. To suppress future outbreaks, we offer auto refill prescriptions of Valacyclovir.

Medications
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  • Valacyclovir

If you get cold sores, you're not alone. Let your Alpha Provider help.

Get Treated
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Learn About Cold Sores

Do you suffer from cold sores? What are some tips for relief? How can you avoid infecting others? Learn from our Alpha Providers.

Self Care Tips
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  • Place a clean, cold, wet towel on the cold sore for 5-10 minutes a few times a day to minimize redness and irritation. Ice the cold sore to lessen pain, burning, or itching
  • Apply a non-prescription gel or ointment to help relieve symptoms (usually contains either benzocaine, lidocaine, dibucaine, or benzyl alcohol)
  • Avoid foods that are spicy, salty, or acidic
How to Avoid Infecting Others
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WHAT TO AVOID DURING AN OUTBREAK

  • Oral contact like kissing, especially children
  • Close contact with anyone who has a weakened immune system, including newborn babies
  • Sharing personal items like lip balm, towels, or razors
  • Sharing beverages or food
  • Touching your cold sores (wash your hands frequently throughout the day, and if you touch a cold sore or apply medicine to it, wash your hands immediately afterward)

How it works

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Describe Your Symptoms

Answer questions about your health condition online.

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Connect with a Medical Provider

A medical provider will review your responses and send an appropriate treatment plan. Your care is evidence-based and personalized at every visit.

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Get Whole-person Care

Your care team will respond to any questions through our secure messaging platform and you can get medication at your preferred pharmacy.

Even More with Alpha Membership

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Exclusive Benefits

Up to 2 medical visits covered per month, and get additional visits at a special rate

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al·​pha | \ ˈal-fə | noun

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