by 
The Curious Bag
-
Shingles (herpes zoster) happens when the varicella-zoster virus (VZV, the virus that causes chicken pox) becomes active in the body again. There are a number of treatments available to help take away the often very severe pain of shingles.
Main Treatment
The main treatment for shingles is a course of antiviral drugs (acyclovir, valacyclovir or famciclovir). According to Medline Plus, these drugs help relieve pain, reduce complications and make symptoms last for a shorter period of time.
Features
It is important for best effect to start antivirals as soon as possible after symptoms appear (within a day, according to Medline Plus). They are given in high doses orally or sometimes intravenously.
Anti-Inflammatories
Shingles causes nerve inflammation, and so anti-inflammatory corticosteroids (prednisone) are used to relieve pain and inflammation, according to Medline Plus.
Other Painkillers
Prescription (narcotic) painkillers, anti-convulsant and tricyclic antidepressant medications may help relieve pain in shingles, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Topical Agents
Doctors may recommend topical lidocaine and capsaicin for pain relief in herpes zoster, according to the Mayo Clinic and Medline Plus.
Considerations
The pain of shingles may last after the rash goes away (a condition called postherpetic neuralgia). Continued use of pain therapies is needed when this occurs.
Source:
RELATED QUESTIONS
Copyright 2023, Wired Ivy, LLC