Medications to treat shingles: 5 options

Shingles is caused by the herpes zoster virus, which also causes chickenpox. After a child has chickenpox, the virus can sometimes remain hidden inside the nerves of their skin in a dormant state. It can later reactivate and cause shingles. 

If you have shingles, you should speak with a healthcare professional as soon as possible, as antiviral medications can help when taken as soon as symptoms begin.

While antiviral medications do not cure shingles, they can shorten the severity and length of the infection and may even reduce your chances of long-term complications, such as nerve pain.

The three commonly prescribed medications are acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir. Consider speaking with a healthcare professional to determine which treatment option will be best for you.

1. Acyclovir

Acyclovir (Sitavig) is an antiviral medication that treats certain viral infections, such as shingles.

It is available in the following forms:

• tablet and capsule, which can be taken 2–5 times a day for 5–10 days
• liquid syrup, which can be taken 2–5 times a day for 5–10 days
• buccal tablet, which is placed on the upper gum and may take several hours to dissolve
• injection, which is given every 8 hours intravenously in the hospital or at home for those with weakened immune systems

If you receive an acyclovir injection, a healthcare professional will determine your dosage based on your age, any medical conditions, and how you respond to the medication.

You may experience side effects when taking acyclovir, such as:

• nausea and vomiting
• vision changes
• upset stomach
• dizziness
• joint pain

You should speak with a healthcare professional immediately if you have any serious side effects, such as facial swelling or difficulty breathing.

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2. Valacyclovir

Valacyclovir (Valtrex) may decrease the itching and pain associated with shingles. It can also help sores to heal and prevent new ones from forming. Valacyclovir is taken orally every 8 hours for 7 days.

Side effects can include:

• upset stomach
• constipation
• headache
• vomiting
• diarrhea

You should seek immediate medical care if you have any severe side effects, such as:

• yellow eyes or skin
• blood in the urine
• confusion

If your symptoms do not improve or worsen, consider speaking with a healthcare professional to help determine the best option.

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3. Famciclovir

Famciclovir (Famvir) can prevent shingles from spreading and help provide relief to symptoms. It can work to:

• decrease tingling, burning, or itching
• prevent new sores
• help sores heal

Famciclovir is a tablet taken orally and is usually prescribed every 8 hours for 7 days.

Side effects include:

• confusion or disorientation
• stomach pain
• dizziness
• vomiting
• fatigue

You should seek immediate medical care if you experience any of the following sensations in your limbs:

• tingling
• numbness
• pain
• burning

It’s important to remember that famciclovir can make you drowsy. Consider only driving or operating heavy machinery once you know how it will affect you.

4. Over-the-counter pain medication

A healthcare professional may recommend an over-the-counter (OTC) medication to help relieve mild pain.

Examples of OTCs for shingles include:

• acetaminophen (Tylenol)
• ibuprofen (Motrin)
• aluminum acetate solution (Domeboro), a liquid medication for your skin

OTCs can be taken alongside prescription shingles medications.

5. Corticosteroids

If you are experiencing severe pain from shingles, your dermatologist may prescribe corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and help sores heal faster.

Corticosteroids are usually taken orally and can help to manage symptoms.

Alternative treatments

A healthcare professional may also recommend alternative treatments to help relieve itching or pain, such as: 

• calamine lotion 
• colloidal oatmeal baths
• a cool, damp compress on the blisters

The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke recommends using lifestyle and dietary measures to help with shingles, including:

• relaxation
• stress reduction
• regular and balanced meals
• gentle exercise, such as stretching or walking
• keeping the area clean to avoid further infections

How long will shingles take to go away?

According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, shingles blisters usually disappear within 7–10 days. A shingles rash may be gone within a month for those without a compromised immune system. 

Cases of shingles typically last between 2–4 weeks, but in some instances, it can leave behind permanent effects such as scarring and pain.

Antiviral treatments can reduce shingles symptoms and help you heal faster. They can also decrease your chances of developing long-term pain.

Summary

If you think you have shingles, you should speak with a healthcare professional immediately. By beginning treatment quickly, you can better your chances of minimizing the discomfort of shingles and long-term complications.

It’s important to take all the medication provided, even if you start to feel better. Skipping doses or not completing them may make it difficult to treat shingles. If you experience nausea while taking the medication, talk with a healthcare professional, as they may be able to suggest an alternative treatment method.

Your shingles symptoms should improve once you start an antiviral treatment. However, if they do not improve or worsen, you should consider speaking to a healthcare professional.

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