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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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How Can Shingles Be Treated?

Hi...I am currently taking acyclovir (800mg 5x daily since Saturday)for shingles. It does not seem to be helping at all...in fact, the blisters are increasing and spreading. I am a 58 year old female in good health, with hypertension well controlled by medication. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
posted on Sun, 29 Jan 2017
Twitter Mon, 13 Feb 2017 Answered on
Twitter Tue, 14 Feb 2017 Last reviewed on
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hello dear
I understand your concern
Shingles is caused by herpes zoster virus infection.
It is self limited disease and recovery occur in 2-3 weeks.
Antiviral medication will help in reduce severity and prevent complication/recurrence.
Following treatment will help you:

Initially treatment:
1. Anti viral medication:Acyclovir/gancyclovir
2. Pain medication: acetaminophen
3. You can use following Topical treatment
- Neosporine ointment
- Calamine lotion
- Capsaicin cream

If pain not relieved after month:
Antidepressant: Amitryptaline
Topical anesthetic: Benzocaine or lidocaine
Opioids and caffeine can be used.

Cool water bath
Wet compression also helpful
Hope this may help you.
Best regards
Dr. Sagar
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How Can Shingles Be Treated?

Hello dear I understand your concern Shingles is caused by herpes zoster virus infection. It is self limited disease and recovery occur in 2-3 weeks. Antiviral medication will help in reduce severity and prevent complication/recurrence. Following treatment will help you: Initially treatment: 1. Anti viral medication:Acyclovir/gancyclovir 2. Pain medication: acetaminophen 3. You can use following Topical treatment - Neosporine ointment - Calamine lotion - Capsaicin cream If pain not relieved after month: Antidepressant: Amitryptaline Topical anesthetic: Benzocaine or lidocaine Opioids and caffeine can be used. Cool water bath Wet compression also helpful Hope this may help you. Best regards Dr. Sagar