Which therapy is used to treat herpes zoster?

Which therapy is used to treat herpes zoster?

• A. Antiviral medication such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir
• B. Antibiotics
• C. Topical steroids
• D. No treatment needed

Answer: (D)

Herpes zoster is treated with antiviral medications to curb viral replication and reduce nerve damage, ideally started within 72 hours of rash onset. Drugs like acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir inhibit viral DNA polymerase, shorten the course of illness, speed lesion healing, and lower the risk and severity of postherpetic neuralgia. They are the mainstay of therapy for most patients, including those at higher risk for complications. Antibiotics don’t address the viral infection unless a bacterial superinfection is present. Topical steroids don’t treat the underlying virus and aren’t a substitute for antivirals. Alongside antivirals, effective pain control with NSAIDs or acetaminophen and, if needed, neuropathic pain management are important aspects of care. In immunocompromised individuals or those with disseminated disease, intravenous antiviral therapy is indicated.

Herpes zoster is treated with antiviral medications to curb viral replication and reduce nerve damage, ideally started within 72 hours of rash onset. Drugs like acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir inhibit viral DNA polymerase, shorten the course of illness, speed lesion healing, and lower the risk and severity of postherpetic neuralgia. They are the mainstay of therapy for most patients, including those at higher risk for complications. Antibiotics don’t address the viral infection unless a bacterial superinfection is present. Topical steroids don’t treat the underlying virus and aren’t a substitute for antivirals. Alongside antivirals, effective pain control with NSAIDs or acetaminophen and, if needed, neuropathic pain management are important aspects of care. In immunocompromised individuals or those with disseminated disease, intravenous antiviral therapy is indicated.