Pharmacy Clinical Pearl of the Day: Shingles Infection

Clinical Pearl of the Day: Shingles infection

Viral infection caused by varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox.

Explanation:

• After chickenpox, the virus stays inactive in nerve tissue near the spinal cord.
• Symptoms may include Pain, burning, numbness or tingling, red rash, blisters, and itching.
• Risk factors include age above 50 years, HIV/AIDS, cancer treatment.
• Shingles vaccines: Shingrix and Zostavax
• Medications that can help with speed of healing for Shingles include:
  • Acyclovir (Zovirax)
  • Famciclovir
  • Valacyclovir (Valtrex)

Reference:

Shingles - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic