Shingles is an infection causes by the herpes zoster virus. It occurs in adults who have previously had the chicken pox. The dormant virus can become activated at any time; however, it becomes more likely as an individual ages. Symptoms include pain and blistering that usually occurs in a band or patch on one side of the body. MayoClinic.com explains that burning, tingling and itching are often present. The blisters ooze fluid and crust over prior to healing. Pain from shingles can become severe. Physicians use one of three antiviral medications to treat this condition.
Famciclovir Sodium
Famciclovir sodium is available as an oral tablet in strengths of 125mg, 250mg and 500mg. Typical dosage is 500mg taken every eight hours for seven days. The "2010 Lippincott's Nursing Drug Guide" describes common side effects as fever, headache, diarrhea and rash. Potentially life-threatening side effects include cancer; thrombocytopenia--a low level of blood platelets that causes easy bleeding--and granulocytopenia--a low level of a type of white blood cells that causes increased susceptiblity to infection. Famciclovir and the other antivirals work best when begun within three days of symptom onset.
Valacyclovir Hydrochloride
Valacyclovir hydrochloride is another antiviral medication indicated for the treatment of herpes zoster, says the American Academy of Family Physicians. It is available in 500mg and 1gm tablets. Typical dosage is 1gm three times a day for seven days. Common side effects include nausea and vomiting. Rarely, this medication causes acute kidney failure, which usually responds to medical care.
Acyclovir
Another medication used to treat herpes zoster includes Acyclovir, notes the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. This antiviral medication is available as a 200mg capsule and a 400mg and 800mg tablet. It comes in suspension, cream and ointment forms for other viral conditions. Typical dosage is 800mg every four hours five times a day for seven to ten days. Occasionally, physicians give it as a slow infusion into the vein of a patient with shingles. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting and inflammation at the site of administration into the vein. It is important to stay well-hydrated while taking this medication.
References
- American Academy of Family Physicians: Shingles
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: NINDS Shingles Information Page
- MayoClinic.com: Shingles
- "2010 Lippincott's Nursing Drug Guide"; Amy M. Karch, R.N., M.S.; 2010
