treatments exist that can lessen the severity of shingles and reduce the risk of postherpetic neuralgia. these include the antiviral drugs acyclovir (zovirax) famciclovir (famvir) and valacyclovir (valtrex). if you believe you have shingles it's important to see your doctor right away because you must begin one of these medications within a few days of a shingles outbreak for best results. if your doctor prescribes an antiviral medication it's important to take it exactly as directed. most are taken once daily for several days. when taken as directed these drugs should be safe during pregnancy. in addition to the medications your doctor prescribes there are over-the-counter (otc) medications and self-help measures that are helpful for relieving shingles pain and itching and preventing infection. these include: cold compresses and cool baths to relieve blisters. loose clothing and clean gauze coverings over affected areas to hasten healing of blisters and prevent infection. antihistamines (particularly benadryl) oatmeal baths and calamine lotion to reduce itching. the otc (over-the-counter) painkiller acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (nsaids) such as ibuprofen (advil motrin ib) ketoprofen (actron orudis (kt) and naproxen (aleve) to relieve pain. before taking any otc medication it's important to speak with your doctor. pregnant women should not take nsaids late in pregnancy.
how can shingles be treated during pregnancy?