Shingles Treatment

Effective treatment for shingles available without a GP appointment.

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Understanding Shingles

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in the body and can reactivate years later as shingles. Shingles typically present as a painful rash on one side of the body or face and can lead to complications if not treated promptly.

Patients aged 18 years and over can receive treatment for shingles from pharmacists. This includes antiviral medications to reduce the severity and duration of the infection, pain management, and advice on preventing the spread of the virus to others who haven’t had chickenpox​ (NHS England)​​ (NHS England)​.

3-Step to book your Shingles appointment

BOOK

1

Book an appointment online or in-store. Register using your NHS login credentials to get started.

CONFIRMATION

1

Receive email confirmations and reminders for your appointments. 

CONSULTATION

1

Consult with our trained pharmacist and receive appropriate medication and care advice.

Need Help with Shingles?

Our pharmacist is here to provide the care you need.

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Shingles FAQs

Expert answers to your shingles questions.

Shingles is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus. Factors that may trigger this reactivation include:

  • Weakened Immune System: Due to age, illness, or medications.

     

  • Stress: Severe physical or emotional stress.

     

  • Previous Chickenpox Infection: Shingles only occurs in individuals who have had chickenpox.

Treatment for shingles focuses on reducing symptoms and preventing complications:

  • Antiviral Medications: Acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir can help reduce the severity and duration of the illness if taken early.

     

  • Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, and sometimes prescription pain medications.

     

  • Topical Treatments: Calamine lotion or other soothing creams can help relieve itching and discomfort.

     

  • Steroids: In some cases, corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation.

Shingles itself is not contagious; however, the varicella-zoster virus can spread from a person with active shingles to someone who has never had chickenpox or the chickenpox vaccine, causing them to develop chickenpox. This is particularly risky for pregnant women, newborns, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

Yes, shingles can be prevented through:

  • Vaccination: The shingles vaccine (Shingrix) is recommended for adults over the age of 50 and those with weakened immune systems.

     

  • Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy immune system through regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management can help reduce the risk of reactivation of the virus.