Cold Sore Treatment
Ontario Minor Ailments Program — pharmacist prescribing plus onsite physician access at TDL MD Clinic & Saldanha Health Centre.
Quick Answer
Pharmacists at Peel Best Pharmacy can prescribe antiviral medication (acyclovir or valacyclovir) for cold sores within 24–48 hours of onset. Call (905) 712-0003 at the first tingle.
About this Service
Clinically reviewed by licensed pharmacistsCold sores (oral herpes, HSV-1) are painful, recurring blisters on or around the lips. The key to effective treatment is speed — starting antiviral medication such as acyclovir or valacyclovir within the first 24–48 hours of the tingling or burning sensation dramatically reduces duration and severity.
At Peel Best Pharmacy, our pharmacists can prescribe antiviral treatment for cold sores under Ontario's Minor Ailments program — no doctor referral required. Call (905) 712-0003 to book an appointment with our pharmacist, or consult our onsite clinic at TDL MD Clinic (905) 712-3998 or Saldanha Health Centre (905) 890-8183 for a physician appointment.
If you experience frequent recurrences (6 or more per year), severe outbreaks, or have a compromised immune system, a family doctor consultation is recommended to develop a suppressive therapy plan. Our onsite family doctors at TDL MD Clinic (Dr. Tony D. Luong, 905-712-3998) and Saldanha Health Centre (Dr. Saldanha, 905-890-8183) are available by appointment in the same building as Peel Best Pharmacy.
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See Our Onsite Physicians Today
Complex cases, recurring conditions, or escalating symptoms? Our physicians are available by appointment — same building as Peel Best Pharmacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a pharmacist prescribe antiviral medication for cold sores in Ontario?
Yes. Ontario pharmacists are authorized to prescribe antivirals (acyclovir, valacyclovir) for cold sores under the Minor Ailments program. Call (905) 712-0003 to book an appointment with our pharmacist. For a physician assessment, contact our onsite clinic — TDL MD Clinic (905) 712-3998 or Saldanha Health Centre (905) 890-8183.
When should I see a doctor for cold sores?
See a family doctor if you have frequent recurrences, very severe or spreading sores, or a weakened immune system. Our onsite family doctors at TDL MD Clinic (905) 712-3998 and Saldanha Health Centre (905) 890-8183 can prescribe suppressive antiviral therapy — same building as Peel Best Pharmacy.
What is the fastest treatment for cold sores?
Prescription antivirals started within 24–48 hours of the first tingle are the most effective treatment. Call (905) 712-0003 to book an appointment with our pharmacist. For complex or recurring cases, consult our onsite clinic — TDL MD Clinic (905) 712-3998 or Saldanha Health Centre (905) 890-8183 — for a physician appointment.
Are cold sores contagious?
Yes. Cold sores are contagious from the first tingle until fully healed. Avoid sharing utensils, kissing, or touching the sore. Start antiviral treatment as soon as symptoms begin.
"The staff here is incredibly helpful and knowledgeable. They always take the time to explain my medications and answer any questions I have."
Sarah M. · 2 months ago
Start cold sore treatment today
Antivirals are most effective within 24–48 hours. Call (905) 712-0003 at the first sign of a cold sore.
We Also Treat
Our pharmacists can assess and prescribe for these related conditions under the Ontario Minor Ailments Program.
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