Ointment shingles. Effective Shingles Creams: Top Topical Treatments for Pain Relief and Management

25.10.202019.07.2023 by alexxlab

What are the most effective creams for managing shingles pain. How do different topical treatments compare for shingles symptom relief. Which over-the-counter and prescription options work best for postherpetic neuralgia. What should you know about using ointments and lotions for shingles.

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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, the virus can remain dormant in the body for years before becoming active again. The hallmark symptom of shingles is a painful rash that typically appears as a stripe on one side of the body, often wrapping around the torso.

While there is no cure for shingles, various treatment options are available to manage symptoms and reduce the duration of the outbreak. Antiviral drugs are commonly prescribed to shorten the course of the infection and minimize its severity. However, topical treatments such as creams, ointments, and lotions can play a crucial role in managing the discomfort associated with shingles.

Key Facts About Shingles:

Caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus
Characterized by a painful rash, usually on one side of the body
No cure, but treatments available to manage symptoms
Antiviral drugs can shorten the duration and reduce severity
Topical treatments help manage irritation, itchiness, and nerve pain

Differentiating Between Creams, Lotions, and Ointments for Shingles Relief

When it comes to topical treatments for shingles, it’s essential to understand the differences between creams, lotions, and ointments. Each formulation has unique properties that can affect its effectiveness in managing shingles symptoms.

Creams:

Creams are composed of approximately equal parts oil and water. They have a thicker consistency than lotions but are thinner than ointments. Creams often provide moisturizing benefits and are easily absorbed by the skin.

Lotions:

Lotions contain a higher proportion of water compared to creams. They have a thinner consistency, which allows for quicker absorption into the skin. Some lotions are oil-free, making them suitable for those with oily skin types.

Ointments:

Ointments are the thickest of the three formulations, containing at least 80 percent oil. They are designed to remain on the skin’s surface rather than being quickly absorbed. This property makes ointments particularly useful for providing long-lasting relief.

The choice between cream, lotion, or ointment for shingles treatment depends on various factors, including the specific symptoms being targeted, the area of application, and personal preference. It’s important to note that while topical treatments can help manage symptoms, they are not a substitute for proper medical treatment. Consulting a healthcare professional is crucial for developing an effective shingles management plan.

Lidocaine: A Powerful Topical Treatment for Shingles Pain

Lidocaine is a highly effective topical treatment for managing shingles pain, particularly for those experiencing postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). PHN is a complication of shingles characterized by long-term nerve pain that persists after the rash has disappeared. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 10 to 18 percent of people with shingles develop PHN.

Benefits of Lidocaine for Shingles:

Provides effective pain relief
Well-tolerated by most patients
Available in cream and patch forms
Can be applied directly to affected areas

Lidocaine 5% is a prescription medication that has shown promising results in managing PHN. A 2017 study suggests that it is one of the best-tolerated treatments for this condition. Lidocaine is often administered in patch form, with up to three patches applied in a 12-hour window.

For those seeking non-prescription alternatives, over-the-counter lidocaine products are available, although they typically contain lower concentrations of the active ingredient. These may provide some relief for milder cases of shingles pain.

Capsaicin Cream: Harnessing Nature’s Pain Relief for Shingles

Capsaicin, the compound responsible for the spicy sensation in hot peppers, has found its way into topical treatments for shingles pain. Capsaicin cream works by desensitizing nerve fibers, potentially providing relief from postherpetic neuralgia (PHN).

Key Points about Capsaicin Cream:

Available over-the-counter and by prescription
Can help manage PHN symptoms
May cause initial burning or stinging sensation
Typically applied four times daily (0.075% concentration)

While capsaicin cream can be effective, it’s important to note that it’s usually not recommended as a first-line treatment for PHN. This is primarily due to the potential side effects, which can include a burning or stinging sensation upon application. However, for those who can tolerate it, capsaicin cream may provide significant relief from shingles-related nerve pain.

When using capsaicin cream, it’s crucial to follow the instructions carefully and wash your hands thoroughly after application to avoid accidentally transferring the cream to sensitive areas like the eyes or mouth.

EMLA Cream: A Unique Anesthetic Option for Shingles Pain Management

EMLA cream, which stands for Eutectic Mixture of Local Anesthetics, is a prescription medication that combines lidocaine and prilocaine in a 1:1 ratio. Each component is present at a 2.5% concentration, creating a potent topical anesthetic that may be beneficial for managing shingles pain.

EMLA Cream for Shingles:

Combines lidocaine and prilocaine for enhanced pain relief
Prescription-only medication
May be effective for postherpetic neuralgia (PHN)
Potentially useful for patients with special conditions

While research on EMLA cream specifically for shingles is limited, a 2018 case study suggested that it may be an effective alternative to lidocaine cream for treating PHN in patients with special situations, such as those with kidney failure. However, it’s important to note that most existing research on EMLA cream for shingles dates back to the 1980s and 1990s.

If considering EMLA cream for shingles pain management, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider. They can provide specific instructions on how to use the cream safely and effectively, taking into account individual medical histories and potential interactions with other medications.

Topical Antibiotics: Preventing Complications in Shingles Treatment

While shingles is a viral infection, bacterial infections can sometimes occur as a secondary complication. Topical antibiotic creams play a crucial role in preventing these bacterial infections, particularly around the shingles rash area.

Common Topical Antibiotics for Shingles:

Mupirocin
Soframycin

These antibiotic creams are available only by prescription. They work by inhibiting bacterial growth on the skin’s surface, reducing the risk of infection in the vulnerable areas affected by the shingles rash. This is particularly important because the blisters and open sores associated with shingles can create entry points for bacteria.

When using topical antibiotics for shingles, it’s crucial to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Typically, these creams are applied sparingly to the affected area, usually two to three times daily or as directed. It’s important not to overuse these antibiotics, as this can lead to antibiotic resistance.

Benefits of Using Topical Antibiotics in Shingles Treatment:

Prevents secondary bacterial infections
Promotes faster healing of the rash
Reduces the risk of complications
Can be used alongside other shingles treatments

While topical antibiotics are beneficial for preventing bacterial infections, they do not treat the shingles virus itself. They should be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes antiviral medications and other symptom management strategies as recommended by your healthcare provider.

Alternative Topical Solutions for Shingles Symptom Relief

In addition to the more commonly prescribed creams and ointments, several alternative topical solutions can help manage shingles symptoms. These options range from over-the-counter remedies to more specialized treatments.

Calamine Lotion:

Calamine lotion is a well-known over-the-counter remedy that can help alleviate itchiness associated with shingles. The CDC recommends applying a thin layer of calamine lotion over the blisters to soothe the skin. It’s important not to apply too much, as this can form a crust on the skin, potentially interfering with the healing process.

Liquid Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO) and Idoxuridine:

Idoxuridine is an antiviral medication approved in Europe for treating shingles. When combined with DMSO, it may help speed up the healing time of shingles lesions. A 2015 publication suggested that frequent application of 5 to 40 percent idoxuridine dissolved in DMSO could be beneficial. However, it’s important to note that 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, also known as aluminum acetate solution, is an astringent that can help dry out weeping or oozing skin lesions. It may be useful in managing the blisters associated with shingles. Burow’s solution can be applied as a wet dressing or compress to the affected area.

Essential Oils:

Some people find relief from shingles symptoms using certain essential oils. For example, peppermint oil has cooling properties that may help soothe irritated skin, while lavender oil is known for its calming effects. However, it’s crucial to dilute essential oils properly and perform a patch test before applying them to larger areas, as they can cause skin irritation in some individuals.

Colloidal Oatmeal Baths:

While not a cream or ointment, colloidal oatmeal baths can provide relief from itching and irritation associated with shingles. Adding colloidal oatmeal to lukewarm bathwater can help soothe the skin and reduce inflammation.

When considering alternative topical solutions for shingles, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider, especially if you’re using other medications. Some of these treatments may interact with prescribed medications or may not be suitable for everyone. Additionally, while these topical solutions can help manage symptoms, they should not replace prescribed antiviral treatments for shingles.

Choosing the Right Topical Treatment for Your Shingles Symptoms

Selecting the most appropriate topical treatment for shingles depends on various factors, including the severity of symptoms, the stage of the outbreak, and individual health considerations. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the options:

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Topical Treatment:

Stage of the shingles outbreak
Specific symptoms (pain, itching, inflammation)
Presence of postherpetic neuralgia (PHN)
Skin sensitivity and allergies
Other medications being taken
Prescription vs. over-the-counter availability

For acute pain relief, lidocaine-based creams or patches may be most effective. These can provide targeted relief and are particularly useful for managing PHN. If itching is the primary concern, calamine lotion or colloidal oatmeal treatments might be more suitable.

For those dealing with both pain and inflammation, a combination approach might be necessary. This could involve using a lidocaine cream for pain relief alongside an anti-inflammatory treatment like capsaicin cream, under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

It’s important to remember that while topical treatments can provide significant relief, they should be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. This typically includes oral antiviral medications prescribed by a doctor to help shorten the duration of the shingles outbreak and reduce the risk of complications.

Tips for Effective Use of Topical Treatments:

Clean the affected area gently before applying any topical treatment
Apply treatments as directed, paying attention to frequency and amount
Be patient – it may take several applications before noticing significant relief
Monitor for any adverse reactions and discontinue use if irritation occurs
Keep the affected area clean and avoid scratching to prevent secondary infections

Remember, what works best can vary from person to person. It may take some trial and error, under the guidance of a healthcare provider, to find the most effective topical treatment or combination of treatments for your specific case of shingles.

The Importance of Professional Medical Advice in Shingles Management

While topical treatments can be highly effective in managing shingles symptoms, it’s crucial to emphasize the importance of seeking professional medical advice. Shingles is a complex condition that requires comprehensive care to prevent complications and ensure the best possible outcome.

Why Professional Medical Advice is Essential:

Accurate diagnosis of shingles
Prescription of appropriate antiviral medications
Tailored treatment plans based on individual health status
Monitoring for potential complications
Guidance on proper use of topical treatments
Management of postherpetic neuralgia (PHN)

A healthcare provider can accurately diagnose shingles and prescribe antiviral drugs that can significantly shorten the duration of the outbreak and reduce its severity. These medications are most effective when started within 72 hours of the rash appearing, underscoring the importance of seeking medical attention promptly.

Furthermore, a medical professional can assess your overall health status and any pre-existing conditions that might affect your shingles treatment. They can also provide guidance on which topical treatments are most appropriate for your specific case and how to use them effectively.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention:

While shingles is generally not life-threatening, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention:

Rash near the eyes, as this can lead to vision complications
Widespread rash covering a large portion of the body
Signs of bacterial infection (increased redness, warmth, or pus)
High fever or confusion
Severe, uncontrolled pain

Remember, topical treatments are an important part of shingles management, but they should complement, not replace, prescribed antiviral medications and other treatments recommended by your healthcare provider. Regular follow-ups with your doctor can ensure that your treatment plan remains effective and can be adjusted if needed.

By combining professional medical care with appropriate topical treatments, you can effectively manage shingles symptoms, reduce the risk of complications, and promote faster healing. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment regimen for shingles, including over-the-counter topical solutions.

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

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.

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.

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.

Was this helpful?

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