Drug Library | Check Interactions | Compare Drugs | Conditions & Treatments | Interactive Tools


	• Drugs & Vitamins • Herbs & Supplements • Pill Images • Using Medicine


	• Drug Comparisons • Side Effect Comparisons


	• Health Conditions • Treatment Options


	• Care Paths • Check for Savings • Health Risk Assessments • Medication Card • Medication Checklist

Treatment Options

Anti-virals

Because a virus causes shingles, the main treatment is antiviral medication. An early start ? within 72 hours of the first sign of the shingles rash ? may speed healing. It may also reduce the risk of postherpatic neuralgia (PHN), a complication of shingles. Antivirals do not cure shingles, but they can reduce the severity and duration of the infection by blocking reproduction of the varicella zoster virus.

Drugs in the class

Famciclovir (Famvir)

Acyclovir Sodium Injection (Zovirax Injection)

Valacyclovir (Valtrex)

Acyclovir Oral Suspension (Zovirax Oral Suspension)

Acyclovir (Zovirax)

Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not intended to diagnose a health condition, but it can be used as a guide to help you decide if you should seek professional treatment or to help you learn more about your condition once it has been diagnosed.