Treatment of Shingles

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As soon as the rash appears, an antiviral drug (such as aciclovar) should be taken, this will reduce the severity and length of the active stage and minimize nerve damage. This is only effective if started soon after the rash appears.

Simple painkillers such as aspirin and paracetamol may help.

Tricyclic antidepressants (e.g. amitryptiline) or the anti-epileptic carbamazepine can be very effective in reducing the burning pain and hypersensitivity of the pain of the rash and postherpetic neuralgia.