Shingles: Shingles is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. Initially, the virus causes chickenpox. The virus remains dormant in the body until the virus is reactivated by a trigger such as stress, fatigue, cancer, radiation treatments, injury, HIV/AIDS, or a weakened immune system. Symptoms include pain in a broad band on one side of the body, fever, chills, headache, itching, and a red, raised rash. Treatment may incorporate pain medication, applying cool compresses, and avoiding skin-to-skin contact with others.
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Shingles Topic Guide - Visuals
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Shingles Topic Guide - Medications and Vitamins
Medications:
Zoster Vaccine LiveHerpes zoster is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox in children. When this virus becomes active again in an adult, it can cause herpes zoster, o...learn more »
PregabalinPregabalin is an anti-epileptic drug, also called an anticonvulsant. It works by slowing down impulses in the brain that cause seizures. Pregabalin also affe...learn more »
ValacyclovirValacyclovir is an antiviral drug. It slows the growth and spread of the herpes virus so that the body can fight off the infection. Valacyclovir will not cur...learn more »
FamciclovirFamciclovir is an antiviral drug. It slows the growth and spread of the herpes virus so that the body can fight off the infection. Famciclovir will not cure ...learn more »
Calamine (topical)Calamine topical (for the skin) is used to treat itching and skin irritation caused by chicken pox, insect bites or stings, measles, eczema, sunburn, poison ...learn more »
Acyclovir TopicalAcyclovir topical (for the skin) is an antiviral drug. It slows the growth and spread of the herpes virus so that the body can fight off the infection...learn more »
GabapentinGabapentin is an anti-epileptic medication, also called an anticonvulsant. It affects chemicals and nerves in the body that are involved in the cause of seiz...learn more »
OxycodoneOxycodone is an opioid pain medication. An opioid is sometimes called a narcotic...learn more »
MorphineMorphine is an opioid pain medication. An opioid is sometimes called a narcotic...learn more »
AmitriptylineAmitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant. Amitriptyline affects chemicals in the brain that may become unbalanced...learn more »
Acetaminophen (oral/rectal)There are many brands and forms of acetaminophen available and not all brands are listed on this leaflet...learn more »
NaproxenNaproxen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Naproxen works by reducing hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body...learn more »
IbuprofenIbuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Ibuprofen works by reducing hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body...learn more »
Acyclovir (injection)Acyclovir is an antiviral drug. It slows the growth and spread of the herpes virus so that the body can fight off the infection. Acyclovir will not cure herp...learn more »
Acyclovir (oral)Acyclovir is an antiviral drug. It slows the growth and spread of the herpes virus so that the body can fight off the infection. Acyclovir will not cure herp...learn more »
