Q. I have a cold sore, for which my doctor prescribed Xerese. It is a new medicine for cold sores.
I will take it in addition to L-lysine tablets and L-lysine cream. I hope it helps. What should I know about it?
A. This new cream is a combination of two old drugs, acyclovir and hydrocortisone. It should be applied at the first sign of a cold sore to speed healing. Since acyclovir is an antiviral drug active against herpes simplex 1 virus that causes cold sores and hydrocortisone eases inflammation and helps skin heal, it should be helpful. If the sore does not clear up within two weeks, check back with your physician.
Many readers find that L-lysine helps to prevent cold sores, but there are other home remedies. They include buttermilk, acidophilus and lemon balm, along with other home remedies.
