Medicine for Shingles

A number of different medications are used in the treatment shingles, also known as herpes zoster. Part of the medicinal treatment for shingles is to target the virus itself, while other medications are used to manage symptoms.

Antivirals

• Antiviral medications are the cornerstone of treatment for shingles. These medications, which include acyclovir, valacyclovir and famciclovir, target the action of the virus and can limit the length of a shingles outbreak if started promptly after the development of symptoms, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP).

Control

• Varicella-zoster virus (VZV), which causes shingles, affects nerves generally in the trunk of the body. To control inflammation of and possible damage to the affected nerve, corticosteroids are administered, according to the AAFP.

Pain Management

• People experience varying levels of pain during shingles. Based on the severity of symptoms, doctors may recommend over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers.

Topical Relief

• Two topical agents are used in the management of shingles. These are lidocaine and capsaicin. Lidocaine can be used while sores are still active and capsaicin is used afterward.

Complications

• Some people go on to develop a chronic painful condition called postherpetic neuralgia once their shingles sores have cleared up. To treat this pain, doctors may prescribe further treatments like tricyclic antidepressants, anticonvulsants, corticosteroids, prescription painkillers, nerve stimulation techniques as well as lidocaine patches, according to the Mayo Clinic.