Most cases of shingles go away naturally without treatment. However, some treatments may be effective at reducing painful symptoms and speeding recovery.

Antiviral drugs (e.g., acyclovir, valacyclovir) administered orally are the most common treatment for shingles. They promote more rapid healing while reducing the pain and duration of the outbreak. Taking antiviral drugs within 72 hours of an episode of shingles increases the potential benefits of treatment. Antiviral drugs and tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., doxepin) may also be beneficial in treating pain associated with post-herpetic neuralgia, a condition in which the pain from shingles lasts for months or years after the lesions disappear. Some patients may receive cortisone injections along with antiviral drugs, or over-the-counter medications (e.g., ibuprofen, aspirin) for decreasing pain and inflammation. Those who develop a bacterial infection as the result of scratching may also be prescribed antibiotics.

Other home treatment methods that may be beneficial in treating shingles symptoms include:

• Cool water compresses. May help soothe pain and reduce the chance of skin infection.
  
  
• Antihistamines. Used to help prevent itching.

• Keeping the area clean and dry. Minimizes pain and accelerates healing.
  
  
• Avoiding scratching. Scratching of blisters may spread germs to others or worsen symptoms.

Anyone with varicella-zoster virus (VZV) can potentially have an outbreak of shingles, making it impossible to prevent once the virus is in the body. However, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD),  only about 20 percent of people with VZV later develop shingles, and most of those outbreaks are relatively mild and do not recur. Individuals without immunity to shingles can prevent VZV infection by avoiding contact with children and adults who have chickenpox or shingles, though it is possible for VZV to be spread before signs of infection (e.g., rash) are present.

The VZV or chickenpox vaccine may decrease the likelihood of shingles by strengthening the immune system’s ability to keep the virus inactive. The varicella vaccine has significantly decreased the number of annual chickenpox infections since its introduction in 1995. Routine vaccinations for children are recommended. Adolescents and adults can also receive the vaccine.