What Can Be Used for Shingles Breakouts?

Because shingles outbreaks are caused by herpes viral infection with the varicella zoster virus (VZV or HHV-3), the primary line of treatment is anti-viral drugs. Medications are also used to control pain and nerve damage associated with the condition.

Significance

• Anti-viral drugs are the element of treatment for shingles that specifically targets the cause. The anti-virals that can be used to treat a shingles outbreak include acyclovir, valacyclovir and famciclovir.

Effects

• Active VZV during shingles outbreak leads to nerve inflammation and possible nerve damage. To control this, corticosteroids are administered, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians.

Relief

• A shingles outbreak can lead to pain, ranging from mild to severe. Depending on the level of pain, doctors may recommend either over-the-counter or prescription narcotic pain relievers as well as topical pain relief agents, according to the AAFP.

Complications

• Some people who have a shingles outbreak may develop a chronic pain condition known as postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). Treatment for PHN includes the continuation of corticosteroids as well as some tricyclic antidepressants and anticonvulsant medications, according to the AAFP.

Prevention

• People who have already had shingles can still get the shingles vaccine in order to reduce their chances of having another outbreak, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Considerations

• Proper treatment for shingles requires prescription medications, and people who believe they have shingles should see a doctor as soon as possible to be diagnosed and to receive the proper medications.