Prescription Medications
Antiviral drugs can help prevent the multiplication of the virus, thus speeding healing and reducing the duration and severity of symptoms in people with shingles. The key is to take them early. It is best to get prescription medication within 3 days of the first appearance of shingle signs. Therefore, make sure to visit your healthcare provider as soon as you notice any symptoms mentioned above. Common antiviral medications used for shingles treatment include valacyclovir, famciclovir, and acyclovir. Other prescription medications to minimize symptoms of shingles include corticosteroids, tricyclic antidepressants, opioids, or anticonvulsants. [5]
