What are the best creams for shingles pain relief. How do lidocaine patches help with postherpetic neuralgia. Which over-the-counter options can soothe shingles symptoms. When should you seek medical treatment for shingles.

Understanding Shingles: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Shingles is a viral infection caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus responsible for chickenpox. After recovering from chickenpox, this virus can remain dormant in your body for years before becoming active again. The hallmark symptom of shingles is a painful rash that typically appears as a stripe around one side of your torso.

While there is no cure for shingles, antiviral drugs are often prescribed to shorten the duration and reduce the severity of the infection. In addition to these medications, topical treatments such as creams, ointments, and lotions can help manage symptoms like irritation, itchiness, and lingering nerve pain known as postherpetic neuralgia (PHN).

Key Facts About Shingles:

• Caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus
• Characterized by a painful rash, typically on one side of the body
• No cure available, but antiviral drugs can help manage symptoms
• Topical treatments can provide relief from irritation and pain

Differentiating Between Creams, Lotions, and Ointments for Shingles

When it comes to topical treatments for shingles, it’s essential to understand the differences between creams, lotions, and ointments. These products vary in their composition, primarily in the ratio of water to oil they contain, which affects their consistency and how they interact with your skin.

Creams:

Creams are composed of roughly equal parts oil and water, giving them a balanced consistency. They often have moisturizing properties and are thicker than lotions but thinner than ointments. Creams are generally well-absorbed by the skin and can provide effective relief for shingles symptoms.

Lotions:

Lotions contain a higher proportion of water compared to creams, resulting in a thinner consistency. They are quickly absorbed by the skin and are often preferred for daytime use due to their lightweight feel. Some lotions are oil-free, making them suitable for those with oily skin types.

Ointments:

Ointments have the thickest consistency among the three, with at least 80% oil content. They are designed to stay on top of the skin rather than being absorbed quickly. This property makes ointments particularly useful for providing long-lasting relief and protection for shingles-affected areas.

How do you choose the right topical treatment for shingles? Consider the following factors:

1. Severity of symptoms
2. Skin type and sensitivity
3. Time of day for application
4. Duration of relief needed

Lidocaine Cream and Patches: A Powerful Solution for Shingles Pain

Lidocaine, a local anesthetic, is one of the most effective topical treatments for managing shingles pain, particularly postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). Available as a prescription medication in 5% concentration, lidocaine cream and patches offer significant relief with minimal side effects.

A 2017 study highlighted lidocaine as one of the best-tolerated treatments for PHN, which affects approximately 10-18% of shingles patients according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The study noted that up to three lidocaine patches could be applied in a 12-hour window, providing extended pain relief.

Benefits of Lidocaine for Shingles Pain:

• Effective pain relief for PHN
• Well-tolerated with minimal side effects
• Available in both cream and patch forms
• Can be used for extended periods

Are lidocaine patches more effective than cream for shingles pain? While both forms are effective, patches offer the advantage of controlled, prolonged release of the medication, which can be particularly beneficial for managing persistent PHN pain.

Capsaicin Cream: Harnessing Nature’s Heat for Pain Relief

Capsaicin, the compound responsible for the spicy sensation in hot peppers, has found its way into topical treatments for shingles pain. Available both over-the-counter and by prescription, capsaicin cream works by desensitizing nerve fibers, potentially providing relief from postherpetic neuralgia.

According to a 2016 review, capsaicin patches and creams are typically not recommended as a first-line treatment for PHN due to potential side effects such as stinging or burning sensations. However, for those who can tolerate it, capsaicin can be an effective option for managing shingles-related pain.

Using Capsaicin Cream for Shingles:

• Available in 0.075% concentration
• Can be applied up to four times daily
• May cause initial burning sensation
• Effectiveness improves with consistent use

How long does it take for capsaicin cream to provide relief from shingles pain? While some people may experience immediate relief, it often takes several applications over a few weeks to achieve maximum benefit. Consistency in application is key to experiencing the full pain-relieving effects of capsaicin cream.

EMLA Cream: A Potent Anesthetic Combination for Shingles Relief

EMLA cream, which stands for Eutectic Mixture of Local Anesthetics, is a prescription medication composed of a 1:1 ratio of 2.5% lidocaine and 2.5% prilocaine. This powerful combination provides effective pain relief for various conditions, including shingles-related pain.

A 2018 case study suggested that EMLA cream could be an effective alternative to lidocaine cream for treating postherpetic neuralgia, particularly in patients with special circumstances such as kidney failure. However, it’s important to note that research on EMLA cream’s effectiveness for shingles is limited, with most studies dating back to the 1980s and 1990s.

Considerations for Using EMLA Cream:

• Prescription-only medication
• Combines two local anesthetics for enhanced pain relief
• May be particularly useful for patients with kidney issues
• Application frequency and duration should be determined by a healthcare professional

Can EMLA cream be used in combination with other shingles treatments? While EMLA cream can be an effective part of a comprehensive shingles treatment plan, it’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before combining it with other medications to avoid potential interactions or side effects.

Topical Antibiotic Creams: Preventing Secondary Infections in Shingles

While shingles is caused by a virus, the open blisters and rash can make the affected area vulnerable to secondary bacterial infections. Topical antibiotic creams, such as mupirocin or soframycin, can help prevent these infections and promote healing of the shingles rash.

These antibiotics are available only by prescription, ensuring that they are used appropriately under medical supervision. A healthcare provider or pharmacist can provide specific instructions on how often to apply these creams and for how long.

Benefits of Topical Antibiotics for Shingles:

• Prevent secondary bacterial infections
• Promote healing of the shingles rash
• Can be used in conjunction with other shingles treatments
• Prescription-only, ensuring proper use and dosage

How do you know if your shingles rash requires antibiotic treatment? Signs that may indicate a need for topical antibiotics include increased redness, swelling, warmth around the rash, or the presence of pus. Always consult with a healthcare provider if you suspect a secondary infection.

Over-the-Counter Options for Soothing Shingles Symptoms

While prescription medications play a crucial role in managing shingles, several over-the-counter options can provide relief from symptoms such as itching and discomfort. These readily available treatments can be valuable additions to your shingles management plan.

Calamine Lotion:

Calamine lotion is a well-known over-the-counter remedy that the CDC recommends for relieving itchiness associated with shingles. To use calamine lotion effectively:

• Apply a thin layer over the affected area
• Avoid applying so much that it forms a crust on your skin
• Reapply as needed throughout the day

Other OTC Options:

While not specifically formulated for shingles, the following over-the-counter products may provide some relief:

• Hydrocortisone cream: Can help reduce inflammation and itching
• Aloe vera gel: May soothe irritated skin and promote healing
• Colloidal oatmeal baths: Can provide overall relief from itching and discomfort

How often should you apply over-the-counter treatments for shingles? The frequency of application can vary depending on the specific product and your symptoms. Generally, most OTC treatments can be applied 2-4 times daily, but always follow the instructions on the packaging or consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Emerging Treatments and Alternative Options for Shingles Relief

As research into shingles management continues, new and alternative treatments are emerging. While some of these options may not be widely available or approved for use in all countries, they represent potential future directions in shingles treatment.

Liquid Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO) and Idoxuridine:

Idoxuridine is an antiviral medication approved in Europe for treating shingles. A 2015 publication suggested that frequent application of 5 to 40 percent idoxuridine dissolved in DMSO may speed up the healing time of shingles. However, in the United States, idoxuridine is only FDA-approved for treating keratitis, a herpes simplex virus infection of the eye’s cornea.

Burow’s Solution:

Burow’s solution, an astringent made from aluminum acetate, has been used to treat various skin conditions. While not specifically approved for shingles, some healthcare providers may recommend it for its soothing and drying properties, which can help with weeping rashes.

Essential Oils:

Some people find relief from shingles symptoms using essential oils such as peppermint, tea tree, or lavender oil. However, it’s crucial to dilute these oils properly and consult with a healthcare provider before use, as they can cause skin irritation or interact with other treatments.

Are alternative treatments as effective as conventional medications for shingles? While some alternative treatments may provide symptomatic relief, they should not replace prescribed antiviral medications and other conventional treatments. Always discuss any alternative therapies with your healthcare provider to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your situation.

In conclusion, managing shingles symptoms effectively often requires a multifaceted approach. From prescription creams and patches to over-the-counter solutions and emerging treatments, a wide range of options is available to help alleviate pain, reduce itching, and promote healing. However, it’s crucial to remember that topical treatments are not a substitute for proper medical care. If you suspect you have shingles, consult with a healthcare provider promptly to receive appropriate antiviral treatment and personalized advice on managing your symptoms.

Cream for Shingles Pain and Management: What’s Available

Shingles is a reactivation of the virus that causes chickenpox, called varicella-zoster. After you recover from chickenpox, this virus can remain dormant, or inactive, in your body for decades before becoming reactivated.

Its hallmark symptom is a rash on one side of your body. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that this rash most commonly appears as a stripe around your torso.

Shingles doesn’t have a cure. But doctors often prescribe antiviral drugs to shorten its duration and reduce the severity.

Topical treatments like creams, ointments, and lotions can help you manage irritation and itchiness. They may also help manage lingering nerve pain called postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). Some topical treatments are available over the counter. For others, you will require a prescription from a medical professional.

Here’s an overview of the creams and other topical treatments available for shingles.

What’s the difference between cream, lotion, and ointment?

Ointments, lotions, and creams are three types of substances you can apply to your skin to help manage shingles.

These topicals are similar, but there are slight differences in their makeup. The primary difference is the amount of water and oil they contain.

According to this 2016 primer, creams are made up of about equal parts oil and water and often have moisturizing properties. They’re thicker than lotions but thinner than ointments.

Lotions are similar to creams, but they are made up mostly of water. They have less oil and have a thinner consistency. Because they’re thinner, your skin absorbs them more quickly. Some lotions are oil-free.

Ointments are the thickest of the three. They are made to stay on top of your skin instead of being absorbed immediately. Ointments are made up of at least 80 percent oil.

Topicals are not a substitute for medical treatment

Topical products can help you manage your symptoms. But they aren’t a substitute for proper medical treatment.

It’s important to visit your doctor if you’re dealing with shingles. Your doctor can prescribe antiviral drugs and other medications that can shorten the duration of your infection and help you avoid severe complications.

Was this helpful?

The following creams may be able to help you manage shingles symptoms.

Lidocaine cream and patches

Lidocaine 5% is a prescription medication. This 2017 study suggests that it’s one of the best-tolerated treatments for PHN.

PHN is a complication of shingles characterized by long-term nerve pain after your rash disappears. The CDC says that about 10 to 18 percent of people experience PHN after shingles.

Lidocaine is often administered in patches. The study linked above notes that up to 3 patches can be applied in a 12-hour window.

Capsaicin

cream

Capsaicin is the chemical found in hot peppers that makes them spicy. Capsaicin cream can desensitize nerve fibers and potentially help with PHN. You can get it over the counter (OTC) or with a prescription.

According to this 2016 review, capsaicin patches and creams are usually not recommended as a first-line treatment for PHN. This is because they can cause side effects like stinging or burning.

The 2017 study in the previous section indicates that capsaicin 0.075 percent cream can be applied four times per day.

Eutectic mixture of local anesthetics (EMLA) cream

EMLA cream is a prescription medication made up of a 1-to-1 ratio of 2.5 percent lidocaine and 2.5 percent prilocaine.

A 2018 case study of one person found that EMLA cream may make an effective alternative to lidocaine cream for treating PHN in people with special situations like kidney failure. However, there’s not much available research about its effectiveness. Most existing research is from the 1980s and ’90s.

A doctor can give you specific instructions on how to use EMLA cream.

Topical antibiotic creams

Topical antibiotic creams like mupirocin or soframycin can help prevent bacterial infection around a shingles rash. These antibiotics are only available by prescription. A doctor or pharmacist can recommend how often to apply them.

Other topical solutions that may help you manage your shingles symptoms include:

Calamine lotion

Calamine lotion is an over-the-counter medication that the CDC says may help relieve itchiness. You can apply a thin layer of lotion over your blisters. Try not to put on so much that it forms a crust on your skin.

Liquid dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and idoxuridine

Idoxuridine is an antiviral medication approved in Europe for treating shingles.

One 2015 publication suggested frequent application of 5 to 40 percent idoxuridine dissolved in DMSO may speed up the healing time of shingles. However, in the United States, idoxuridine is only FDA-approved to treat keratitis, a herpes simplex virus infection of the cornea of your eye.

Burow’s solution

Burow’s solution, or aluminum acetate, is an over-the-counter astringent. Astringents have a protective effect against inflamed and irritated skin.

There’s a limited amount of evidence that Burow’s solution can help heal shingles, but it’s possible that it may help soothe blisters.

You can try applying 5 percent aluminum acetate solution for about 30 to 60 minutes at a time.

Saline solution

Bathing your blisters in a saline solution several times a day may help reduce inflammation. You can cover your blisters with a nonstick bandage afterward to keep other people from coming into contact with the blisters.

Aloe and other botanical topical therapies

Aloe vera has antiviral effects. A 2016 study found evidence that it inhibits the growth of herpes simplex virus type 1.

It’s not clear if aloe vera gel is effective at treating shingles, but some people anecdotally report that it helps with redness and inflammation.

In a 2021 case report, one person showed substantial improvement after the application of a topical botanical formulation that included:

• lemon balm
• St. John’s wort
• Siberian ginseng
• English lavender
• licorice
• purple pitcher plant
• versabase gel (containing aloe vera)

When using a topical cream, it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions or the instructions on the package. This should help you avoid unwanted side effects.

Applying topicals for too long or too often can lead to skin irritation or even more serious side effects.

Topical lidocaine can cause side effects like:

• severe burning, stinging, irritation
• swelling or redness
• confusion
• bruising
• unusual temperature sensation
• itching
• changes in skin color
• bruising or purpleness

Some topical solutions for shingles are available by prescription only. You can find others OTC.

OTC medications don’t require approval from a pharmacist. You can purchase them online, in pharmacies, and in other places that sell medications.

If you suspect that you have shingles, it’s important to visit a healthcare professional as soon as possible. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), treating shingles within the first 72 hours gives you the best chance of minimizing complications like nerve pain.

Antiviral medications or other medications only available by prescription can shorten the duration of your shingles or lessen the severity.

If a cream or other topical isn’t reducing your pain, it’s a good idea to visit your doctor again. They may recommend trying another treatment like capsaicin cream instead of lidocaine.

If a product is making your symptoms worse, it’s important to stop taking it right away.

You may be able to reduce your symptoms using home remedies while you’re waiting to see a healthcare professional. These include applying a wet cold compress or taking a cool bath.

Learn more about shingles home remedies here.

The AAD suggests that treating shingles within the first 72 hours gives you the best chance of minimizing complications like nerve pain. A doctor may prescribe medications like:

• antiviral drugs, such as acyclovir or valacyclovir, to help your body fight off the virus quicker
• anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen, to ease swelling and pain
• opioid medications, such as hydrocodone and tramadol (and less commonly morphine), to reduce pain
• other medications, such as anticonvulsants and tricyclic antidepressants
• antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine, to treat itching
• numbing agents like lidocaine

Learn more about shingles treatment here.

Some creams or other topical medications may help you manage shingles symptoms. But they’re not a substitute for proper medical treatment.

It’s critical to visit a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation if you think you have shingles. They may prescribe antiviral drugs or other medications that can reduce your chances of developing long-term complications.

Cream for Shingles Pain and Management: What’s Available

Shingles is a reactivation of the virus that causes chickenpox, called varicella-zoster. After you recover from chickenpox, this virus can remain dormant, or inactive, in your body for decades before becoming reactivated.

Its hallmark symptom is a rash on one side of your body. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that this rash most commonly appears as a stripe around your torso.

Shingles doesn’t have a cure. But doctors often prescribe antiviral drugs to shorten its duration and reduce the severity.

Topical treatments like creams, ointments, and lotions can help you manage irritation and itchiness. They may also help manage lingering nerve pain called postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). Some topical treatments are available over the counter. For others, you will require a prescription from a medical professional.

Here’s an overview of the creams and other topical treatments available for shingles.

What’s the difference between cream, lotion, and ointment?

Ointments, lotions, and creams are three types of substances you can apply to your skin to help manage shingles.

These topicals are similar, but there are slight differences in their makeup. The primary difference is the amount of water and oil they contain.

According to this 2016 primer, creams are made up of about equal parts oil and water and often have moisturizing properties. They’re thicker than lotions but thinner than ointments.

Lotions are similar to creams, but they are made up mostly of water. They have less oil and have a thinner consistency. Because they’re thinner, your skin absorbs them more quickly. Some lotions are oil-free.

Ointments are the thickest of the three. They are made to stay on top of your skin instead of being absorbed immediately. Ointments are made up of at least 80 percent oil.

Topicals are not a substitute for medical treatment

Topical products can help you manage your symptoms. But they aren’t a substitute for proper medical treatment.

It’s important to visit your doctor if you’re dealing with shingles. Your doctor can prescribe antiviral drugs and other medications that can shorten the duration of your infection and help you avoid severe complications.

Was this helpful?

The following creams may be able to help you manage shingles symptoms.

Lidocaine cream and patches

Lidocaine 5% is a prescription medication. This 2017 study suggests that it’s one of the best-tolerated treatments for PHN.

PHN is a complication of shingles characterized by long-term nerve pain after your rash disappears. The CDC says that about 10 to 18 percent of people experience PHN after shingles.

Lidocaine is often administered in patches. The study linked above notes that up to 3 patches can be applied in a 12-hour window.

Capsaicin

cream

Capsaicin is the chemical found in hot peppers that makes them spicy. Capsaicin cream can desensitize nerve fibers and potentially help with PHN. You can get it over the counter (OTC) or with a prescription.

According to this 2016 review, capsaicin patches and creams are usually not recommended as a first-line treatment for PHN. This is because they can cause side effects like stinging or burning.

The 2017 study in the previous section indicates that capsaicin 0.075 percent cream can be applied four times per day.

Eutectic mixture of local anesthetics (EMLA) cream

EMLA cream is a prescription medication made up of a 1-to-1 ratio of 2.5 percent lidocaine and 2.5 percent prilocaine.

A 2018 case study of one person found that EMLA cream may make an effective alternative to lidocaine cream for treating PHN in people with special situations like kidney failure. However, there’s not much available research about its effectiveness. Most existing research is from the 1980s and ’90s.

A doctor can give you specific instructions on how to use EMLA cream.

Topical antibiotic creams

Topical antibiotic creams like mupirocin or soframycin can help prevent bacterial infection around a shingles rash. These antibiotics are only available by prescription. A doctor or pharmacist can recommend how often to apply them.

Other topical solutions that may help you manage your shingles symptoms include:

Calamine lotion

Calamine lotion is an over-the-counter medication that the CDC says may help relieve itchiness. You can apply a thin layer of lotion over your blisters. Try not to put on so much that it forms a crust on your skin.

Liquid dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and idoxuridine

Idoxuridine is an antiviral medication approved in Europe for treating shingles.

One 2015 publication suggested frequent application of 5 to 40 percent idoxuridine dissolved in DMSO may speed up the healing time of shingles. However, in the United States, idoxuridine is only FDA-approved to treat keratitis, a herpes simplex virus infection of the cornea of your eye.

Burow’s solution

Burow’s solution, or aluminum acetate, is an over-the-counter astringent. Astringents have a protective effect against inflamed and irritated skin.

There’s a limited amount of evidence that Burow’s solution can help heal shingles, but it’s possible that it may help soothe blisters.

You can try applying 5 percent aluminum acetate solution for about 30 to 60 minutes at a time.

Saline solution

Bathing your blisters in a saline solution several times a day may help reduce inflammation. You can cover your blisters with a nonstick bandage afterward to keep other people from coming into contact with the blisters.

Aloe and other botanical topical therapies

Aloe vera has antiviral effects. A 2016 study found evidence that it inhibits the growth of herpes simplex virus type 1.

It’s not clear if aloe vera gel is effective at treating shingles, but some people anecdotally report that it helps with redness and inflammation.

In a 2021 case report, one person showed substantial improvement after the application of a topical botanical formulation that included:

• lemon balm
• St. John’s wort
• Siberian ginseng
• English lavender
• licorice
• purple pitcher plant
• versabase gel (containing aloe vera)

When using a topical cream, it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions or the instructions on the package. This should help you avoid unwanted side effects.

Applying topicals for too long or too often can lead to skin irritation or even more serious side effects.

Topical lidocaine can cause side effects like:

• severe burning, stinging, irritation
• swelling or redness
• confusion
• bruising
• unusual temperature sensation
• itching
• changes in skin color
• bruising or purpleness

Some topical solutions for shingles are available by prescription only. You can find others OTC.

OTC medications don’t require approval from a pharmacist. You can purchase them online, in pharmacies, and in other places that sell medications.

If you suspect that you have shingles, it’s important to visit a healthcare professional as soon as possible. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), treating shingles within the first 72 hours gives you the best chance of minimizing complications like nerve pain.

Antiviral medications or other medications only available by prescription can shorten the duration of your shingles or lessen the severity.

If a cream or other topical isn’t reducing your pain, it’s a good idea to visit your doctor again. They may recommend trying another treatment like capsaicin cream instead of lidocaine.

If a product is making your symptoms worse, it’s important to stop taking it right away.

You may be able to reduce your symptoms using home remedies while you’re waiting to see a healthcare professional. These include applying a wet cold compress or taking a cool bath.

Learn more about shingles home remedies here.

The AAD suggests that treating shingles within the first 72 hours gives you the best chance of minimizing complications like nerve pain. A doctor may prescribe medications like:

• antiviral drugs, such as acyclovir or valacyclovir, to help your body fight off the virus quicker
• anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen, to ease swelling and pain
• opioid medications, such as hydrocodone and tramadol (and less commonly morphine), to reduce pain
• other medications, such as anticonvulsants and tricyclic antidepressants
• antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine, to treat itching
• numbing agents like lidocaine

Learn more about shingles treatment here.

Some creams or other topical medications may help you manage shingles symptoms. But they’re not a substitute for proper medical treatment.

It’s critical to visit a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation if you think you have shingles. They may prescribe antiviral drugs or other medications that can reduce your chances of developing long-term complications.

Shingles ointment: top 5 most effective remedies than smearing herpes zoster in humans, can it be smeared with brilliant green?

An acute infectious disease caused by the Zoster virus and affecting the skin with the nervous system is called herpes zoster. The disease affects people who have previously had chickenpox.

After the visible healing of the skin, the body still retains particles of the virus that are in a “sleep” mode. For the virus to be activated, the slightest decrease in immunity due to chronic diseases, hypothermia, bad habits, chemotherapy, etc. is enough.

For the therapeutic purpose of this disease, an ointment from herpes zoster with an antiviral, antihistamine or antifungal effect is widely used. The action of the drugs is aimed at eliminating itching, rashes and inflammation. Let us consider in more detail – how to smear shingles in humans.

Article content

• 1 Aciclovir ointment for herpes infections
• 2 Zovirax ointment for herpes zoster
• 3 Lidocaine ointment
• 4 Ointments based on penciclovir
• 5 Hyporamine ointment in the fight against herpes
• 6 Alpizarin based on herbal ingredients
• 7 Useful video
• 8 Other related articles

Acyclovir – ointment for the treatment of herpes infections 9 0029

Acyclovir ointment is highly effective against viruses herpes simplex types 1 and 2, Varicella zoster virus, cytomegalovirus and Epstein-Barr virus.

Manufacturers produce two types of the drug, differing in the concentration of the active substance:

• 3% – used to treat mucous membranes;
• 5% – applied to the skin.

The drug is applied to the affected areas up to 6 times a day. The course of therapy is 7-10 days.

IMPORTANT

Do not stop treatment after the condition improves to prevent further spread of the virus.

Zovirax – ointment for herpes zoster

Zovirax ointment is a foreign analogue of Acyclovir, which prevents the synthesis of viral cells and reduces its activity in the body.

Thanks to this, inflammation is eliminated, skin rashes disappear and the level of local immunity increases.

This ointment for shingles in humans is most effective if it was applied at the first signs of the disease – itching, tingling in the area of ​​​​future rashes, redness of the skin.

Treatment must be continued until the formation of herpes crusts. If the drug does not show positive results within 4-6 days from the start of use, then you should contact your doctor.

IMPORTANT

Herpes zoster ointment on the body of a sick person does not protect people who come into contact with him from infection!

Lidocaine ointment

Gerpferon ointment is an effective combined preparation for the treatment of herpes zoster. The composition of the drug includes the following components:

• acyclovir – inhibits the replication of the virus in infected cells;
• lidocaine – has an analgesic effect;
• interferon – stimulates the phagocytic function of neutrophils in the lesions.

This herpes zoster ointment prevents the formation of fresh rashes, reduces pain in the acute phase, reduces the possibility of further spread of the rash and the risk of developing visceral complications, and brings the recovery time closer. Thanks to interferon, an immunostimulating effect is provided.

Herpferon ointment is applied to the infected areas of the skin evenly in a thin layer up to five times a day. The interval between applications should be at least four hours. The duration of treatment depends on the severity of the symptoms of the disease and averages 7 days.

Ointments based on penciclovir

If a doctor has prescribed an ointment for herpes zoster on the body with the antiviral agent penciclovir, then you should not think that it is less effective than Acyclovir.

The active substance also penetrates the cells affected by herpes and inhibits the processes of viral DNA replication, which leads to the cessation of their reproduction.

Quick recovery, reduction of pain intensity, reduction of the period of risk of transmission of viral infection – this is only part of the positive effects of the application of the ointment.

Ointments containing the active substance penciclovir:

• Vectavir;
• Fenistil Pencivir;>
• Penciclovir-Fitovit.

Consult your doctor before using any of the above medicines for herpes zoster. Some of them have contraindications for age and other criteria.

Hyporamine ointment in the fight against herpes

The ointment is based on a dry extract from the leaves of sea buckthorn, which has an antiviral effect. The drug not only eliminates the activity of many viruses, but also increases the production of interferon in the body.

The active substance is low toxic and does not cause allergenic, carcinogenic, mutagenic or teratogenic effects. It can be prescribed for infants (from 2 months).

Treatment with hyporamine ointment is started at the first signs of the disease – itching, burning, redness of the skin and mucous membranes. The contents of the tube are applied in a thin layer 5-6 times a day for 4-8 days. If the disease is severe or often recurrent, then therapy can last up to 21 days.

IMPORTANT

With prolonged use of hyporamine ointment, it is necessary to control blood clotting!

Alpizarin based on herbal ingredients

The basis of the ointment is the substance tetrahydroxyglucopyranosylxanthene, which is isolated from the alpine kopek herb and Indian mango leaves.

The drug has the following pharmacological properties:

• bacteriostatic – inhibits the mechanism of protein synthesis of microorganisms;
• antiviral – reduces the reproduction of the herpes virus;
• antibacterial – kills some types of bacteria;
• immunostimulating – activates the synthesis of gamma-interferon in blood cells.

The ointment is used from the age of one year, provided there is no allergy to the constituent components. The course of treatment is determined by the severity of the symptoms of the disease, but not less than 5 days and not more than 21 days. The drug can be prescribed in complex therapy with systemic drugs.

Some patients ask if it is possible to smear green paint on herpes zoster. Any doctor will say that of course you can, but it’s not entirely effective. The fact is that Zelenka does not have an antiviral effect, therefore, it does not help in the fight against herpes infections.

Its use is justified if patients experience severe itching, which can provoke scratching and secondary infection.

Any ointment for herpes zoster should only be prescribed by a specialist, because self-medication can lead to the formation of unwanted complications, such as suppuration of the rash and scars. Remember that prompt medical attention is the key to a speedy recovery.

Useful video

Clinic “Yellow Emperor” Shingles treatment: symptoms, ointments, drugs – how to treat shingles

Shingles is an infectious dermatological disease caused by the herpes virus. The same pathogen that has penetrated into the children’s body becomes the cause of the development of chickenpox. Pathology has been known since ancient times, but its connection with chickenpox became known only in the middle of the last century.

Direction of therapy

Shingles is usually treated on an outpatient basis. However, if complications arise, hospitalization may be required. A dermatologist and a neurologist are struggling with pathology with the joint efforts.

Treatment is directed to:

• to suppress the activity of the virus;
• removal of pain and other symptoms of the disease;
• prevention of possible complications.

Methods of therapy

After the symptoms of herpes zoster are detected, treatment is prescribed with medication and physiotherapy.

Drug treatment includes the use of:

• antiviral drugs – they are introduced into the DNA of the virus and block its ability to reproduce;
• analgesics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs – relieve pain;
• ganglion blockers – counteract pain;
• antihistamines – relieve itching;
• diuretic drugs – eliminate intoxication;
• antidepressants, sleeping pills and sedatives – soothe, normalize sleep, relieve anxiety and neuroses;
• vitamin complexes – strengthen the immune system.

Corticosteroids can slow down inflammation and relieve itching, but they weaken the immune system. Therefore, for those who have shingles, drugs containing hormones are not prescribed.

In the case of treatment with immunosuppressive drugs, they must be discontinued. Patients suffering from severe chronic pathologies, as well as those who have previously been treated with immunosuppressants, corticosteroids, or cytostatics, are given intramuscular immunoglobulin.

Topical therapy can also help treat shingles. The affected areas of the skin are treated with antiviral ointments and brilliant green. For those who have shingles, the ointment will help relieve swelling, eliminate itching and speed up healing.

Medical treatment is effectively complemented by physiotherapeutic procedures: laser therapy, quartz treatment, ultraviolet irradiation, plasmapheresis, electrophoresis, diathermy.

Patients with herpes zoster are advised to increase the content of fruits rich in ascorbic acid in their diet. Taking a bath and washing during the course of the disease is contraindicated.

Treatment of lichen using Chinese medicine

Chinese medicine in the treatment of herpes pays special attention to restoring the energy balance of the body, balancing the flow of yang and yin, erasing negative information.