If you have a shingles outbreak, it is important to act quickly. Taking the right medications and using home remedies can reduce pain and prevent complications. In this article, we will explain what to take for shingles, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter relief, supplements, and more.
What Is Shingles?
Shingles is a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus. This is the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus stays in the body in an inactive form. Years later, it can become active again and cause shingles.
Shingles usually appears as a painful rash on one side of the body. The rash often comes with burning, tingling, or stabbing pain. It may also cause blisters that break open and crust over.
When to Start Treatment
It is best to start treatment for shingles within 72 hours of the first signs. Early treatment can reduce pain and shorten the duration of the outbreak. Even if more than 72 hours have passed, treatment can still help, especially if new blisters are still forming.
Prescription Antiviral Medications
Antiviral medications are the most effective way to treat shingles. They help stop the virus from multiplying and reduce the severity of the symptoms. Doctors usually prescribe one of the following:
Acyclovir
Acyclovir is an antiviral drug that must be taken several times a day. It is one of the oldest and most studied treatments for shingles.
Valacyclovir
Valacyclovir is a newer version of acyclovir. It only needs to be taken three times a day and is often more convenient.
Famciclovir
Famciclovir is another option. Like valacyclovir, it can be taken fewer times a day than acyclovir and has a similar effect.
Pain Relief Medications
Shingles can cause intense pain. Many people need more than just antiviral drugs to manage the discomfort. There are several options for pain relief.
Over-the-Counter Painkillers
Common over-the-counter (OTC) options include:
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) – reduces pain and fever
Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) – reduces inflammation and pain
These are usually enough for mild to moderate pain.
Prescription Pain Medications
For more severe pain, your doctor may prescribe stronger painkillers. These can include:
Opioids – such as codeine or tramadol
Gabapentin or pregabalin – used for nerve pain
Tricyclic antidepressants – such as amitriptyline, for long-term nerve pain
These medications can help control nerve-related pain that often comes with shingles.
Topical Treatments
Applying something directly to the skin can also help reduce pain and itching.
Calamine Lotion
This is a common choice to soothe itching and dry out blisters.
Cool Compresses
Applying a cool, damp cloth to the rash can provide temporary relief from burning and discomfort.
Lidocaine Cream or Patches
Lidocaine can numb the area and reduce pain. Some products are available over-the-counter, while others require a prescription.
Supplements That May Help
Some people find relief by taking supplements that support the immune system and skin healing. Always talk to your doctor before starting new supplements.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C supports the immune system and may help speed up recovery.
Vitamin B12
B12 is important for nerve health. Some people with shingles benefit from B12 injections or supplements.
Lysine
Lysine is an amino acid that may help fight viruses. It is often used to prevent or reduce outbreaks of viral infections.
Zinc
Zinc helps the immune system and skin repair. It is available in pill form or as a topical cream.
Natural Remedies
Some people use natural remedies to manage shingles symptoms. These should not replace medical treatment, but they may offer extra comfort.
Oatmeal Baths
Adding colloidal oatmeal to a lukewarm bath can soothe the skin and reduce itching.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera gel can cool the skin and reduce irritation.
Honey
Honey has natural healing and antibacterial properties. Applying a thin layer to the rash may help protect it and ease symptoms.
Foods to Eat and Avoid
Eating a healthy diet can support the immune system and help you recover faster.
Foods to Eat
- Fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins A, C, and E
- Whole grains
- Lean protein
- Yogurt and other probiotic foods
Foods to Avoid
- Foods high in sugar
- Refined carbs
- Highly processed foods
- Excessive caffeine or alcohol
These foods may weaken the immune system and increase inflammation.
What Not to Do During a Shingles Outbreak
Some actions can make shingles worse or lead to complications. Try to avoid the following:
- Scratching the rash – this can cause infection
- Wearing tight clothes – this can irritate the rash
- Using harsh soaps – stick to gentle, fragrance-free cleansers
- Being around people who haven’t had chickenpox or the vaccine – you can spread the virus
How Long Does a Shingles Outbreak Last?
Most shingles outbreaks last between two and four weeks. Pain usually starts before the rash appears and may continue even after the rash heals. This lasting pain is called postherpetic neuralgia.
How to Prevent Future Outbreaks
The best way to prevent shingles is by getting vaccinated.
Shingles Vaccine
The shingles vaccine, called Shingrix, is recommended for adults over 50 and for some people with weakened immune systems. It is more than 90% effective at preventing shingles and long-term nerve pain.
When to See a Doctor
You should see a doctor right away if:
- You think you have shingles
- The rash is near your eyes
- You have a weakened immune system
- The pain is severe and not going away
- The rash spreads to other parts of your body
Early treatment can prevent serious complications.
Conclusion
Shingles can be very painful, but there are many treatments that can help. Antiviral medications work best when started early. Pain relief, both oral and topical, can improve comfort. Supplements and natural remedies may offer extra support. Most people recover fully, but taking the right steps can make the process faster and less painful.
If you have shingles or think you might, talk to a healthcare provider as soon as possible. Getting the right treatment early makes a big difference.
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