Shingles Treatment

Though shingles can be painful and last for several weeks, it’s typically very treatable in younger adults and those who are not immunocompromised. Current research shows that 96 people^[25] die of shingles per year, which represents a rate of less than one person per one million. Shingles is typically treated^[26] using antiviral medications in the form of oral pills. Antivirals may help shorten the amount of time that the herpes zoster virus is active in the body. Antiviral medications are most effective when they are taken as soon as symptoms (such as a rash) appear. If you start to develop a rash and suspect it might be caused by shingles but are unable to visit your healthcare provider for several days, home remedies, such as calamine lotion, oatmeal baths, or cool compresses, may be helpful in alleviating skin burning and itching.

Shingles medication

Your provider may prescribe the following medications for shingles:

Shingles vaccination

There are currently two vaccines^[27] available for shingles. The first vaccine, Shingrix, is typically the preferred option since it was developed more recently. Shingrix can be administered to adults over the age of 50 who are in good health. The vaccine is administered in two doses between 2 to 6 months apart. [RxSaver offers coupons on the vaccine][1] that can be used at nearby pharmacies. The other vaccine available for shingles, Zostavax, may be given to healthy adults over the age of 60 in a single dose. [1]: https://rxsaver.retailmenot.com/drugs/shingrix/coupons