Shingles Treatment
Specific treatment for shingles will be determined by your health care provider based on:
- Your age, overall health, and medical history
- Extent of the condition
- Your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
- Expectations for the course of the condition
- Your opinion or preference
There is no cure for shingles. It simply has to run its course. Treatment focuses on pain relief. Painkillers may help relieve some of the pain. Antiviral drugs may help lessen some of the symptoms and minimize nerve damage. Other treatments may include:
- Bed rest, especially during the early phase of shingles, and if fever is present
- Creams or lotions to help relieve itching
- Cool compresses applied to affected skin areas
- Antiviral medications (such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir)
- Steroids
- Antidepressants
- Anticonvulsants