Treatment of Herpes Zoster

Abstract

Resolution of acute pain related to herpes zoster is accelerated with any of the following: oral acyclovir (Zovirax) 800 mg five times daily for seven days; valacyclovir (Valtrex) 1,000 mg three times daily for seven days; or famciclovir (Famvir) 750 mg once daily, 500 mg twice daily, or 250 mg three times daily for seven days. (Strength of recommendation: A) Oral corticosteroids given during the acute phase of the illness have not been shown to reduce the incidence or severity of postherpetic neuralgia. (Strength of recommendation: B) There is no evidence to support the use of tricyclic antidepressants or anticonvulsants for the management of herpes zoster. (Strength of recommendation: B)