Here are the basics about each of the medicines below. Only common problems with them are listed.
Prescription Medications
- Acyclovir
- Valacyclovir
- Famciclovir
Prescription Medications
Common name:
- Acyclovir
Acyclovir is an antiviral drug. It may shorten the illness and lower the risk of problems from it.
It may be given to people with severe chickenpox. It may also be given to people:
- Over the age of 12 who have not been vaccinated
- Who have chronic skin or lung disease
- Receiving steroid therapy
- Who have a weakened immune system
- Who are pregnant
Some problems may be:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Kidney problems
Over-the-Counter Medications
Common name:
- Diphenhydramine
Antihistamines are used to ease the itch that comes from the rash.
The most common side effect is feeling sleepy.
References
Chickenpox. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/chickenpox . Accessed September 8, 2020.
Chickenpox. Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at: http://familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/diseases-conditions/chickenpox.html. Accessed September 8, 2020.
Chickenpox (varicella). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Available at: http://www.cdc.gov/chickenpox. Accessed September 8, 2020.
Gershon AA, Breuer J, et al. Varicella zoster virus infection. Nat Rev Dis Primers. 2015 Jul 2;1:15016.
Revision Information
- Reviewer: EBSCO Medical Review Board Shawna Grubb, RN
- Review Date: 03/2020
- Update Date: 03/23/2021