Shingles refers to a viral infection in which the varicella-zoster virus (VZV) leads to such symptoms as pain; burning or numbness on one side of the body; itching; a red rash; fluid-filled blisters; chills and a fever. The Mayo Clinic also says that shingles leads to fatigue, a headache and achiness. Medicines to treat shingles help decrease these symptoms.
Famciclovir
Famciclovir, commonly sold as Famvir, is an antiviral medication that stops the progression of VZV. Drugs.com says that famciclovir also treats cold sores, the chicken pox and genital herpes. Some of its less serious side effects include stomach pain, diarrhea, a skin rash, itching, fatigue, a headache and dizziness. In some instances, famciclovir leads to an allergic reaction. Signs of an allergic reaction include trouble breathing, hives and swelling of the tongue, lips or face. Call 911 if these effects develop. If you suffer from kidney disease, a weakened immune system and severe lactase deficiency, your doctor may decrease your dose of famciclovir. Famciclovir is a tablet taken daily or as directed.
Valacyclovir
Valacyclovir, commonly sold as Valtrex, is another antiviral drug that treats shingles. Drugs.com says that some of valacyclovir's less concerning side effects include bloody diarrhea, easy bleeding or bruising, pale or yellow skin and fainting. Some of its serious side effects include confusion, aggression, agitation, vomiting, a poor appetite, shortness of breath and lower back pain. Notify a physician when valacyclovir leads to these effects. If you have HIV/AIDS, kidney disease or having a bone marrow or kidney transplant, your doctor might change your dose of valacyclovir. Valacyclovir is a tablet taken daily or as prescribed.
Amitriptyline
Amitriptyline, commonly sold as Limbitrol, is a tricyclic antidepressant that helps decrease the pain from shingles. MedlinePlus says that amitriptyline's less concerning effects include headaches, a dry mouth, confusion, unsteadiness, trouble urinating, unsteadiness and confusion. Some of amitriptyline's serious side effects include swelling of the face or tongue, crushing chest pain, fainting, dizziness, hallucinations or seizures. Call a doctor if amitriptyline leads to these effects. If you take certain other medications, such as cimetidine, ipatropium, phenobarbital and sertraline, your doctor may decrease your dose of amitriptyline. Amitriptyline is a tablet taken one to four times each day.
