What Medicine Is Best For Shingles

New england journal of medicine 2005.

What medicine is best for shingles. What is the best medication for pain relief of shingles. Medications that contain narcotics such as codeine. Shingles generally lasts between two and six weeks. It presented in the middle right side of her stomach.

Follow the links to read common uses side effects dosage details and read user reviews for the drugs. Learn about treatment options from a pain management specialist. Asked 24 apr 2010 by jtomrai1 updated 14 february 2012 topics herpes zoster. An injection including corticosteroids and local anesthetics.

How is shingles treated. Shingles is a viral infection that causes a rash which can be painful. Herpes zoster also called shingles is an infection caused by a herpesvirus varicella zoster virus herpes zoster results from activation of the virus which in many instances has remained latent for years following a primary chickenpox infection. Below is a list of common medications used to treat or reduce the symptoms of shingles.

There are several home remedies that may provide relief from the symptoms. Roughly 30 to 60 of people over age 60 who get shingles go on to develop a chronic pain syndrome called post herpetic neuralgia. Most people get shingles only once but it is possible to get it two or more times. Antiviral medications such as acyclovir zovirax famciclovir famvir and valacyclovir valtrex may ease the discomfort and may reduce the duration of the symptoms particularly if started within 72 hours of the first sign of shingles.

National institute of neurologic disorders and stroke. There is no cure for shingles but there are treatments for managing the symptoms. Seek early treatment mayo clinic health letter june 2002. The pain is relentless and nothing seems to be helping.

While antiviral medication is an effective treatment for shingles it s not the only option. These include chamomile witch hazel and oat baths. Pain medicine either over the counter or a prescription from your doctor may help relieve the pain caused by shingles.