Do you need to consult a doctor for a prescription for birth control pills to reduce the chances of getting pregnant? Or are there other options available?

Yes, a doctor can prescribe a very effective treatment for reducing the frequency and intensity of cold sores. Valtrex is a medication that is more effective than Abreva and can be taken at the start of an outbreak to reduce its severity and duration. It can also be taken continuously for six months to decrease the number of outbreaks per year. Unfortunately, a pharmacist cannot prescribe Valtrex, but a gynecologist or another healthcare provider may be able to do so if they are comfortable with it.