What medications are used to treat shingles?

Jun 16, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Wenmin

Introduction

Herpes zoster is generally a skin lesion caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus present in the human body. It is characterized by a band-like distribution of clustered blisters on one side of the body, accompanied by localized pain. Treatment may include medications such as Acyclovir tablets, Gabapentin capsules, Valacyclovir hydrochloride tablets, Ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, and Mecobalamin tablets, under the guidance of a physician.

Generally, herpes zoster is a skin lesion caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus latent in the human body. It is characterized by a cluster of blisters on one side of the body or face, accompanied by localized pain. Treatment may include medications such as acyclovir tablets, gabapentin capsules, valacyclovir hydrochloride tablets, ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, and mecobalamin tablets, under the guidance of a physician. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Acyclovir Tablets

Acyclovir tablets are a nucleoside antiviral medication that inhibits viral DNA synthesis, preventing viral replication and thereby alleviating symptoms and accelerating healing.

2. Gabapentin Capsules

Patients with herpes zoster may experience severe neuropathic pain. Gabapentin capsules, as an anticonvulsant, can alleviate pain caused by herpes zoster by modulating nerve conduction and inhibiting nerve excitability.

3. Valacyclovir Hydrochloride Tablets

Valacyclovir hydrochloride tablets are commonly used antiviral medications for treating herpes zoster. They inhibit viral replication and shorten the duration of illness.

4. Ibuprofen Sustained-Release Capsules

Ibuprofen sustained-release capsules are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) with analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. They can reduce pain and inflammatory responses caused by herpes zoster by inhibiting the release of inflammatory mediators and decreasing the sensitivity of nerve endings.

5. Mecobalamin Tablets

The herpes zoster virus can invade the human body through the nervous system, causing nerve damage. Mecobalamin tablets are a type of neurotrophic drug that can promote the repair and regeneration of neurons, improve nerve conduction function, and thereby alleviate nerve damage and pain caused by herpes zoster.

During treatment, patients should also pay attention to adjusting their diet, primarily consuming low-salt and low-fat foods, and avoiding spicy or irritating foods to prevent exacerbation of the condition.

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How to manage postherpetic neuralgia after shingles

In general, the treatment of postherpetic neuralgia mainly includes routine care, physical therapy, medication, traditional Chinese medicine, and nerve block therapy. In addition, patients should follow medical advice for standardized treatment during the course of therapy, attend regular follow-up visits, and avoid adjusting medications on their own. If symptoms such as increased pain or expanded affected areas occur, timely medical consultation is necessary to adjust the treatment plan.

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How to treat snake-like waist pain effectively and quickly?

In general, the occurrence of herpes zoster may be caused by factors such as excessive fatigue and decreased immunity, prolonged mental stress and high pressure, reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, postherpetic neuralgia, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and then improve the condition through lifestyle adjustments, medication, or other treatments under a doctor's guidance.

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Is there a vaccine for herpes virus?

Currently available herpesvirus vaccines mainly target varicella-zoster virus and certain types of herpes simplex virus. Varicella-zoster virus vaccines are categorized into varicella vaccines and herpes zoster vaccines; the former are used to prevent varicella in children, while the latter are used to reduce the risk of developing herpes zoster and its complications in adults. These vaccines have relatively mature clinical applications.

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Is the herpes zoster virus contagious?

Under normal circumstances, the herpes zoster virus is contagious. If discomfort symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek timely medical treatment at a正规 hospital. Patients should keep their skin clean and avoid contact between the fluid from ruptured blisters and others;尽量减少外出 until the blisters have formed scabs, and especially avoid contact with infants, pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.