Managing Herpes Zoster and Postherpetic Neuralgia

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

6-2009

Abstract

Treatment strategies for herpes zoster infection include limiting viral replication with anti-infective agents as well as limiting associated acute and chronic neuropathic pain with a variety of analgesics. The author outlines currently available pharmacotherapeutic options, from first-line (eg, anti-infective agents, tricyclic antidepressants, anticonvulsants, opioid analgesics, and topical agents) through adjuvant treatments (eg, oral corticosteroids). A summary of adverse event profiles is provided for each medication. Vaccination is recommended as a preventive measure.

Pharmacotherapy for herpes zoster should accelerate healing and reduce the severity and duration of associated pain. Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is defined along a continuum of pain—whether acute or chronic—and is measured from the onset of infection until final resolution.

Reducing the risk for complications is also important. Treatment strategies for zoster infection include limiting viral replication with antiviral agents and limiting acute and chronic pain with a variety of analgesics

Publication Title

Journal of the American Osteopathic Association

Volume

109

Issue

6 suppl 2

First Page

S7

Last Page

S12

PubMed ID

19553635

Comments

This article was published in the Journal of the American Osteopathic Association, Volume 109, Issue 6, Supplement 2, June 1, 2009, Pages S7-S12.

The published version is available at http://www.jaoa.org/content/109/6_suppl_2/S7.long

Copyright © 2013 the American Osteopathic Association

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