Here are the basics about each of the medicines below. Only common problems with them are listed.
No medicine can cure shingles. One or more medicines may be given to:
- Shorten how long a person is sick
- Lower the risk of problems
- Ease pain
Some people get postherpetic neuralgia with pain. If so, the doctor may give pain medicines.
Prescription Medications
- Acyclovir
- Valacyclovir
- Famciclovir
- Prednisone
- Prednisolone
- Opioids
- Oxycodone
- Tramadol
- Anticonvulsants
- Gabapentin
- Pregabalin
- Tricyclic Antidepressants
- Local Anesthetics
Over the Counter Medications
- Acetaminophen
- Ibuprofen
-
Antipruritics
- Diphenhydramine
- Caladryl
-
Antibiotic ointment:
- Polysporin
- Neosporin
-
Capsaicin cream:
- Zostrix
Prescription Medications
Common names are:
- Acyclovir
- Valacyclovir
- Famciclovir
These medicines can shorten how long you are sick. They may also ease pain. They may also help avoid problems, such as post-herpetic neuralgia.
Problems may be:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Lightheadedness
- Belly pain
- Rash
- Headache
- Shaking
Common names are:
- Prednisone
- Prednisolone
These medicines may possibly ease short term pain. However, there is not enough evidence.
Some problems are:
- Worsening of high blood pressure
- Worsening of diabetes
- Restlessness and irritability
- Insomnia
These medicines may be used to ease moderate to severe pain:
Common names are:
- Oxycodone
- Tramadol
Some problems may be:
- Sleepiness
- Dizziness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constipation
Common names are:
- Gabapentin
- Pregabalin
Some problems may be:
- Tiredness
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
Common names are:
- Nortriptyline
- Amitriptyline
Some problems may be:
- Sleepiness
- Dizziness
- Constipation
- Blurred vision
Lidocaine patch applied to skin.
Some problems may be:
- Discomfort or burning
- Redness or swelling of the skin
Over the Counter Medications
Ibuprofen can also help ease aches and pains. To lower the risk of an upset stomach, take ibuprofen with food.
References
Herpes zoster. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/herpes-zoster. Accessed November 15, 2021.
Saguil A, Kane S, et al. Herpes zoster and postherpetic neuralgia: prevention and management. Am Fam Physician. 2017;96(10):656-663.
Shingles information page. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke website. Available at: https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/All-Disorders/Shingles-Information-Page. Accessed November 15, 2021.
Shingles overview. The American Academy of Dermatology website. Available at: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/shingles-overview. Accessed November 15, 2021.
Shingles. The American Academy of Dermatology website. Available at: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/contagious-skin-diseases/shingles. Accessed November 15, 2021.
Revision Information
- Reviewer: EBSCO Medical Review Board David L. Horn, MD, FACP
- Review Date: 11/2021
- Update Date: 11/16/2021