How is Shingles Treated? 

There is actually no cure for a viral infection, the disease usually runs its whole course before a patient can get full relief. However there are a few drugs such as Zovirax (acyclovir), Famivir (famciclovir) and Valtrex (valacyclovir), which can reduce the pain and duration of the disease if the diagnosis has been made early. Medicines such as Zovirax if started within 48 hours of the onset of the disease can reduce the course of the disease to a limited extent. Since the disease is so painful, doctors also prescribe non-steroidal painkillers such as ibuprofen and naproxen. Taking acetaminophen as well as other analgesics such as codeine will also help.

 The other big problem with shingles is the itching around the blisters. Sometimes with too much scratching a blister might burst and the patient can get a secondary bacterial infection. There are solutions, such as Burow's or Domeboro's solution, available at local pharmacies that help in drying up the blisters and relieve itching.