Does Abreva work?

Although Abreva does not cure herpes simplex, it can help sores heal faster and reduce discomfort and pain, explains Mayo Clinic. Abreva, a brand of topical docosanol, is used to treat viral herpes infections located on or around the mouth.

Sold in cream form, Abreva is available over the counter without a doctor's prescription, states Mayo Clinic. Affected adults need to rub it gently into the skin of the affected area five times per day until all sores are healed. For best results, Abreva treatment should commence as soon as possible after symptoms are noticed. Abreva is intended only to treat herpes outbreaks around the mouth and must never be applied to the genitals or around the eyes.