What are the treatment options for varicella-zoster virus?

What are the treatment options for varicella-zoster virus?

Antiviral medications, including Acyclovir, famciclovir, and valacyclovir, are effective if taken as soon as the diagnosis and can shorten the duration of the infection while improving symptoms.

What is the most common treatment for varicella-zoster virus that must be used within 72 hours to prevent post herpetic neuralgia?

Acyclovir, valacyclovir (Valtrex), and famciclovir are effective treatments for herpes zoster and ideally should be started within 72 hours of the appearance of the rash to decrease the duration of symptoms and severity of pain.

How long should you take acyclovir for shingles?

Acyclovir must be taken more frequently than the other drugs (five times daily as opposed to three times daily). Antiviral treatment typically lasts for one week. Pain medications — The pain related to shingles can be severe, and medications are frequently needed.

What is the drug of choice for chickenpox?

If you’re at risk for severe chickenpox and already have symptoms, your doctor might prescribe an antiviral medication called acyclovir (Sitavig, Zovirax). It can help to make your symptoms less severe. You’ll take the first dose within 24 hours of developing the rash.

Is acyclovir necessary for chickenpox?

Acyclovir is a safe treatment that reduces the duration and severity of chickenpox in normal children when therapy is initiated during the first 24 hours of rash. Whether treatment with acyclovir can reduce the rare, serious complications of chickenpox remains uncertain.

Is 7 days of acyclovir enough for shingles?

For treatment of shingles: Adults and children 12 years of age and older—800 mg five times a day for seven to ten days. Children up to 12 years of age—Use and dose must be determined by the doctor.

Is 7 days of Valtrex enough for shingles?

For treatment of shingles: Adults—1000 milligrams (mg) three times a day for seven days. Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

How much acyclovir should I take for chicken pox?

The approved dose of oral acyclovir for chickenpox is 200 mg/kg (up to a maximum of 800 mg) 4–5 times daily for 5 days. Adults with herpes zoster can be treated with oral acyclovir at a dose of 800 mg five times daily.

How often should I take acyclovir 800 mg?

Adults: Treatment of herpes zoster infections: 800mg aciclovir should be taken five times daily at approximately four-hourly intervals, omitting the night time dose. Treatment should continue for seven days.

How long does it take acyclovir 800 mg to work?

Acyclovir begins to work within 24 to 48 hours after you start taking it. It may take four or five days for symptoms to reduce, but you should continue consuming the medication until the prescribed course is complete.

Does acyclovir treat chicken pox?

Acyclovir is a safe treatment that reduces the duration and severity of chickenpox in normal children when therapy is initiated during the first 24 hours of rash.

What happens when you take too much acyclovir?

Low red blood cells and platelets: This drug may cause thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) and hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). These conditions cause dangerously low levels of red blood cells and platelets in your body. This may be fatal (cause death). Symptoms can include fatigue and low energy.