Lysine
A cold sore infection cannot be cured, but it can be managed with over-the-counter antiviral drugs such as valacyclovir (Valtrex) or acyclovir (Zovirax). In addition to these antiviral drugs, lysine is a vital amino acid found in proteins that a person with a cold sore can take. It should be ingested as an oral supplement or diet because the body cannot generate lysine on its own.
Herpes simplex needs a consistent supply of arginine to proliferate within the body. The body transforms the amino acid lysine into nitric oxide, a molecule required to widen blood vessels and enhance blood flow. Lysine is supposed to prevent arginine from being absorbed into the intestine, depriving the virus of the amino acid. Moreover, this amino acid can reduce or inhibit the HSV-1 replication process, even if it might not be able to treat a cold sore infection.
Since lysine can’t treat cold sores, doctor-prescribed antiviral medications should be continually taken along with it. But before taking lysine, seeking advice from a health professional is recommended.
