• Shingles and Chickenpox (Varicella-Zoster Virus) - Treatment for an Acute Shingles Attack
• Highlights
• Introduction
• Risk Factors
• Complications
• Symptoms
• Diagnosis

Treatment for Shingles

The treatment goals for an acute attack of herpes zoster include:

• Reduce pain
• Reduce discomfort
• Hasten healing of blisters
• Prevent the disease from spreading

Over-the-counter (OTC) remedies are often effective in reducing the pain of an attack. Antiviral drugs (acyclovir and others), oral corticosteroids, or both are sometimes given to patients with severe symptoms, particularly if they are older and at risk for postherpetic neuralgia (PHN).

Home Treatments for Shingles

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