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Galpharm Cold Sore Cream - 2g

Galpharm Cold Sore Cream - 2g

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  • ✔️ Targets herpes simplex virus with aciclovir 5% antiviral action
  • ✔️ Works best when applied at first tingle or itch
  • ✔️ Reduces cold sore healing time when used early
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over
  • ✔️ Compact 2g tube — easy to carry for fast treatment

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What Is Cold Sore Cream and How Can It Help?

 

Cold sores are small, fluid-filled blisters that typically appear on or around the lips. They're caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and, once you've been infected, the virus stays in your body for life — flaring up when your immune system is under pressure. That tingling sensation you feel before a blister appears? That's your cue to act. Cold sore cream containing aciclovir works best when applied at that very first sign, before the blister has a chance to fully develop. Galpharm Cold Sore Cream 2g is a clinically recognised, over-the-counter antiviral treatment available for just £3.49 from Cured Pharmacy.

Cold sores affect a significant proportion of the UK population. They're not dangerous for most healthy adults, but they can be uncomfortable, unsightly, and socially distressing. Having a reliable treatment to hand — one you can reach for the moment that familiar tingle starts — makes a real difference. You can also browse our oral health collection for complementary lip and mouth care products.

 

How Does Galpharm Cold Sore Cream Work?

 

The active ingredient in Galpharm Cold Sore Cream is aciclovir 5%. Aciclovir is an antiviral medicine that targets the herpes simplex virus directly. Here's how it works:

  • Aciclovir is absorbed into cells infected by the herpes simplex virus.
  • Inside those cells, it is converted into aciclovir triphosphate — the active form.
  • This active form inhibits viral DNA polymerase, the enzyme the virus needs to replicate its genetic material.
  • Without replication, the virus cannot spread to surrounding skin cells, limiting the size and duration of the outbreak.

It's worth noting that aciclovir does not eliminate the virus from your body entirely — it simply suppresses its activity during an outbreak. That's why early application is so important. The sooner you apply it, the less opportunity the virus has to replicate.

 

Who Should Use Galpharm Cold Sore Cream?

 

This cream is suitable for adults and children aged 12 and over who experience recurrent cold sores on the lips or face. It's an over-the-counter product, meaning you don't need a prescription to buy it. That said, it's not appropriate for everyone.

Galpharm Cold Sore Cream is suitable for:

  • Adults and adolescents aged 12 years and over
  • People experiencing the early signs of a cold sore (tingling, itching, or redness)
  • Those with a confirmed history of recurrent herpes labialis (cold sores on the lips)
  • Individuals looking for a convenient, affordable OTC antiviral treatment

It is not suitable for children under 12, or for treating cold sores inside the mouth, on the genitals, or in the eyes. If you have a weakened immune system — for example, due to HIV, chemotherapy, or immunosuppressant medicines — speak to your GP before using this product.

 

How Does Galpharm Cold Sore Cream Compare to Other Cold Sore Treatments?

 

Feature Galpharm Cold Sore Cream 2g Zovirax Cold Sore Cream 2g
Active ingredient Aciclovir 5% Aciclovir 5%
Application frequency 5 times daily for 5–10 days 5 times daily for 5–10 days
Suitable age 12 years and over 12 years and over
Price (approx.) £3.49 £5.00–£7.00 (varies by retailer)

 

Is Galpharm Cold Sore Cream Safe to Store and Use Long-Term?

 

Galpharm Cold Sore Cream should be stored below 25°C, away from direct heat and sunlight. Keep the cap tightly closed when not in use, and always check the expiry date printed on the tube before applying. Do not use the cream after the expiry date has passed, even if it looks and smells fine.

If you find yourself reaching for cold sore cream frequently — say, more than six times a year — it may be worth speaking to your GP. Frequent outbreaks can sometimes indicate an underlying issue with your immune system. For other skin-related treatments, take a look at our skin care collection. This cold sore cream is intended for short-term, episodic use only.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

Galpharm Cold Sore Cream 2g specifications
Treatment category Antiviral / Cold Sore Treatment
Active ingredient Aciclovir 5% w/w
Mechanism of action Inhibits herpes simplex virus DNA polymerase
Suitable for Adults and children aged 12 and over
Pack size 2g tube
Strength 5% aciclovir
UK classification Pharmacy (P) medicine
Drug class Antiviral (nucleoside analogue)
Preparation Topical cream
Route of administration Topical (external use only)

Specifications of Galpharm Cold Sore Cream 2g

 

What Is Galpharm Cold Sore Cream and What Is It Used For?

 

Galpharm Cold Sore Cream 2g is a topical antiviral medicine used to treat cold sores caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1). It contains aciclovir 5% w/w as its active ingredient. Cold sores typically appear as small blisters on or around the lips, and they can cause itching, burning, and discomfort. This cream is designed to be applied at the earliest sign of an outbreak — the tingling or itching stage — to reduce the severity and duration of symptoms. It is available over the counter without a prescription for adults and young people aged 12 and over.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Galpharm Cold Sore Cream?

 

Before using this cream, read the following carefully. There are situations where this product may not be appropriate for you.

Do not use Galpharm Cold Sore Cream if you:

  • Are allergic to aciclovir, valaciclovir, or any of the other ingredients in the cream
  • Are under 12 years of age
  • Have cold sores inside the mouth, on the genitals, or near the eyes
  • Have a severely weakened immune system (e.g. due to HIV/AIDS or organ transplant) — seek GP advice first

Speak to your pharmacist or GP before using if you:

  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Have kidney problems
  • Experience very frequent cold sore outbreaks (more than six per year)
  • Are using any other topical medicines on the same area

Drug interactions:

  • Topical aciclovir at standard OTC doses has no clinically significant known drug interactions
  • If you are taking oral antiviral medicines, inform your pharmacist before using this cream

 

How Should You Use Galpharm Cold Sore Cream?

 

Using this cream correctly gives you the best chance of a faster recovery. Follow these steps carefully:

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after applying the cream.
  2. Apply a thin layer of cream to the affected area on the lip or surrounding skin.
  3. Gently rub in the cream — do not cover with a dressing unless advised by a healthcare professional.
  4. Apply five times a day, approximately every four hours during waking hours (skip the night-time dose).
  5. Continue treatment for five days. If the sore has not healed, continue for up to ten days in total.
  6. Avoid getting the cream in your eyes, inside your mouth, or inside your nose.
  7. Do not share the tube with anyone else — cold sores are contagious.
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Cold sore on lips/face 12 years and over Small amount (approx. 1.25cm strip) 5 times daily, every 4 hours (skip night dose)
Cold sore on lips/face Under 12 years Not recommended Seek GP advice

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Galpharm Cold Sore Cream?

 

Like all medicines, Galpharm Cold Sore Cream can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are mild and localised to the area where the cream is applied. If you're concerned about any reaction, you can also find general guidance through our pain relief collection for managing discomfort.

Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

  • Mild burning or stinging at the application site
  • Itching or tingling sensation after applying
  • Temporary skin dryness or flaking around the treated area

Less common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

  • Redness or mild skin irritation
  • Contact dermatitis (skin inflammation due to sensitivity to an ingredient)
  • Swelling of the lips or face — stop use immediately and seek medical advice if this occurs

Serious allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) are very rare but possible. Signs include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or a widespread rash. If you experience any of these, stop using the cream and call 999 or go to your nearest A&E immediately.

 

How Should You Store Galpharm Cold Sore Cream?

 

Correct storage keeps the cream effective for its full shelf life. Follow these guidelines:

  • Store below 25°C — do not refrigerate or freeze
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
  • Keep the cap tightly closed when not in use
  • Keep out of the reach and sight of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the tube and carton
  • Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused medicines to your pharmacy

If you're managing multiple health conditions and need a range of topical treatments, our creams and ointments collection has a wide selection to explore.

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy Galpharm Cold Sore Cream online in the UK?

You can buy Galpharm Cold Sore Cream 2g directly from Cured Pharmacy, a UK GPhC-registered online pharmacy, for just £3.49. No prescription is needed as it is an over-the-counter Pharmacy (P) medicine. Simply add it to your basket and complete your order online for convenient home delivery.

How does Galpharm Cold Sore Cream work in the body?

Galpharm Cold Sore Cream contains aciclovir 5%, which is absorbed into cells infected by the herpes simplex virus. Once inside, it is converted into its active form, aciclovir triphosphate, which blocks the viral enzyme DNA polymerase — stopping the virus from replicating. This limits the spread of the infection and helps the cold sore heal more quickly.

How do I use Galpharm Cold Sore Cream step by step?

Wash your hands, then apply a small amount of cream to the affected area five times a day, roughly every four hours during waking hours. Avoid applying near the eyes, inside the mouth, or inside the nose. Continue for five days, or up to ten days if the sore has not fully healed.

When is the best time to start using Galpharm Cold Sore Cream?

The earlier you apply the cream, the better — ideally at the very first sign of a cold sore, such as tingling, itching, or a burning sensation on the lip. Applying at this prodromal stage gives aciclovir the best opportunity to suppress viral replication before blisters form. Waiting until blisters are fully developed significantly reduces how effective the treatment can be.

What are the side effects of Galpharm Cold Sore Cream?

Most people tolerate Galpharm Cold Sore Cream well, but some may experience mild burning, stinging, or itching at the application site. Less commonly, skin dryness, redness, or contact dermatitis may occur. If you notice swelling of the face or lips, or have difficulty breathing, stop using the cream immediately and seek urgent medical attention.

Can I use Galpharm Cold Sore Cream during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using this cream. Topical aciclovir is absorbed in very small amounts through the skin, but professional guidance is still recommended before use during pregnancy or lactation. Do not self-treat without seeking advice first.

How long does Galpharm Cold Sore Cream take to work?

When applied at the first sign of a cold sore, aciclovir cream can reduce the healing time by approximately one day compared to no treatment, according to clinical evidence. Most cold sores resolve within seven to ten days regardless of treatment. Consistent application five times daily throughout the treatment period gives the best outcome.

Who is eligible to use Galpharm Cold Sore Cream?

Galpharm Cold Sore Cream is suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over who have cold sores on the lips or surrounding facial skin. It is not suitable for children under 12, or for treating cold sores inside the mouth, on the genitals, or near the eyes. People with a weakened immune system should consult their GP before use.

What happens if I miss a dose of Galpharm Cold Sore Cream?

If you forget to apply the cream at one of your scheduled times, apply it as soon as you remember and then continue with your regular schedule. Do not apply a double amount to make up for a missed application. Consistency is important — try to apply at roughly the same intervals each day for the best results.

What are alternatives to Galpharm Cold Sore Cream?

Other aciclovir 5% creams such as Zovirax are available over the counter and work in the same way as Galpharm Cold Sore Cream, though they tend to cost more. Penciclovir 1% cream (Vectavir) is another antiviral option applied every two hours. Your pharmacist can help you decide which is most suitable for your situation. You can also explore our oral health collection for related products.

How long can you use Galpharm Cold Sore Cream for?

Each course of treatment should last five days, extended to a maximum of ten days if the cold sore has not healed. This cream is not intended for long-term continuous use — it is for episodic treatment of individual outbreaks only. If your cold sore has not improved after ten days, consult your GP or pharmacist.

Can Galpharm Cold Sore Cream be used on children?

Galpharm Cold Sore Cream is not recommended for children under 12 years of age. For children aged 12 and over, it can be used in the same way as for adults, following the same dosing instructions. If a younger child has a cold sore, speak to your GP or pharmacist for appropriate advice.

Does Galpharm Cold Sore Cream interact with other medicines?

Topical aciclovir at standard over-the-counter doses has no clinically significant known interactions with other medicines. However, if you are already taking oral antiviral medicines such as aciclovir or valaciclovir tablets, inform your pharmacist before using this cream. Always mention all medicines you are taking, including herbal remedies and supplements.

What are the latest studies on aciclovir cold sore cream?

Clinical evidence consistently supports the use of topical aciclovir 5% cream for reducing the duration and severity of herpes labialis (cold sores) when applied early. Studies show it can shorten healing time by approximately one day and reduce pain when used at the prodromal stage. The NHS and BNF both recognise aciclovir cream as a first-line OTC treatment for cold sores.

How should I manage side effects of Galpharm Cold Sore Cream?

Mild side effects such as stinging or dryness at the application site usually resolve on their own and do not require you to stop treatment. If irritation is significant, try applying a slightly smaller amount of cream. For broader skin comfort support, you might find our creams and ointments collection helpful — and always speak to your pharmacist if you are unsure whether to continue.

How Should You Use Galpharm Cold Sore Cream?

Always read the label before use and wash your hands thoroughly before and after each application. Apply the cream only to the affected area on the lip or surrounding facial skin — never inside the mouth, near the eyes, or on broken skin elsewhere on the body. Do not share the tube with anyone else, as cold sores are contagious.

Follow these steps for each application:

What Is the Correct Dose of Galpharm Cold Sore Cream?

The standard dose is a small amount applied five times a day, approximately every four hours during waking hours. There is no need to set an alarm for a night-time dose — simply skip it and resume your schedule in the morning. Do not apply more cream than recommended, as this will not speed up healing.

When Is the Best Time to Use Galpharm Cold Sore Cream?

Start applying the cream at the very first sign of a cold sore — this is typically a tingling, itching, or burning sensation on the lip, before any visible blister appears. This prodromal stage is when aciclovir is most effective, as it can interrupt viral replication before the outbreak fully develops. If you wait until blisters have already formed, the cream can still help, but its impact on healing time will be reduced.

Space your five daily applications evenly throughout the day — for example, at 7am, 11am, 3pm, 7pm, and 11pm. Keeping a consistent schedule helps maintain adequate levels of the medicine at the site of infection.

How Long Can You Use Galpharm Cold Sore Cream For?

Use the cream for five days. If the cold sore has not healed after five days, you may continue for up to ten days in total. Do not use the cream for longer than ten days without speaking to your pharmacist or GP. This product is intended for episodic use only — it is not suitable for continuous, long-term application as a preventative measure.

If your cold sore has not improved after ten days, or if you are experiencing very frequent outbreaks (more than six per year), seek medical advice. Frequent recurrences may warrant assessment for an underlying cause.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

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What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Galpharm Cold Sore Cream?

Most people who use Galpharm Cold Sore Cream do not experience significant side effects. When reactions do occur, they are usually mild and limited to the area where the cream has been applied. Common side effects may affect up to 1 in 10 people.

  • Mild burning or stinging sensation immediately after applying the cream
  • Itching or tingling at the application site
  • Temporary dryness or flaking of the skin around the treated area

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Galpharm Cold Sore Cream?

Less common reactions are those that may affect up to 1 in 100 people. These are still generally mild but worth being aware of, particularly if you have sensitive skin or a history of skin reactions to topical products.

  • Redness or localised skin irritation beyond the cold sore itself
  • Contact dermatitis — an inflammatory skin reaction caused by sensitivity to one of the cream's ingredients (such as propylene glycol)
  • Mild swelling or puffiness around the application site

If any of these reactions are persistent or worsening, stop using the cream and speak to your pharmacist before continuing treatment.

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Galpharm Cold Sore Cream?

Serious side effects from topical aciclovir are very rare, but they can occur. An allergic reaction (hypersensitivity) to aciclovir or any of the excipients in the cream is possible, though uncommon. Signs of a serious allergic reaction include:

  • Sudden swelling of the lips, face, tongue, or throat
  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • A widespread skin rash, hives, or blistering beyond the treated area
  • Dizziness or feeling faint

If you experience any of these symptoms, stop using the cream immediately and call 999 or go to your nearest accident and emergency department without delay.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

For mild side effects such as stinging or dryness, you can usually continue treatment — these reactions often settle after the first day or two of use. Try applying a slightly smaller amount of cream if irritation is bothersome. Avoid rubbing the area vigorously after application.

If you are unsure whether a reaction is serious, always err on the side of caution and speak to a pharmacist or GP. You can also report suspected side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk. This helps improve medicine safety for everyone.

Can Galpharm Cold Sore Cream Interact With Other Medicines?

Topical aciclovir at standard over-the-counter doses has no clinically significant known interactions with other medicines. The amount of aciclovir absorbed through the skin is very small, making systemic interactions unlikely. However, if you are already taking oral aciclovir, valaciclovir, or other antiviral medicines, inform your pharmacist before using this cream to ensure there is no duplication of treatment. Always tell your pharmacist about all medicines you are taking, including vitamins, supplements, and herbal remedies.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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