your doctor may suggest medications to reduce inflammation ease pain and control your shingles infection. painkillers such as aspirin or acetaminophen can relieve mild pain. anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen (motrin) or naproxen (aleve) are also often helpful for pain. antiviral drugs such as acyclovir may help stop progression of the rash especially if used early in the course of the blister breakout. similar drugs such as valtrex or famvir can also be used. these drugs may also help stave off the painful after-effects of shingles known as postherpetic neuralgia. benzoin available over the counter may protect irritated skin when applied to unbroken lesions. antibiotics can keep the infection under control if the area becomes infected by bacteria. tricyclic antidepressants or seizure medication may be prescribed for the pain that lingers after lesions have healed. antidepressants may also help with depression that can occur with the onset of shingles or as a result of the lingering pain. steroids to reduce inflammation and postherpetic neuralgia are considered controversial.
what are some conventional medicines given for shingles?