 [ Symptoms ] what is the treatment for shingles should i visit my health care professional [ Disease ] there are several effective treatments for shingles drugs that fight viruses antivirals such as acyclovir zovirax valacyclovir valtrex or famciclovir famvir can reduce the severity and duration of the rash if started early within 72 hours of the appearance of the rash in addition to antiviral medications pain medications may be needed for symptom control both nonsteroidal anti inflammatory medications and narcotic pain control medications may be used for pain management in shingles the affected area should be kept clean bathing is permitted and the area can be cleansed with soap and water cool compresses and anti itching lotions such as calamine lotion may also provide relief an aluminum acetate solution burow is or domeboro solution available at your pharmacy can be used to help dry up the blisters and oozing