To help the condition your doctor may prescribe an antiviral medication. Although it cannot prevent shingles, it can help relieve the symptoms and make recovery quicker. To be most effective, antiviral medication should be started within 72 hours (3 days) after the rash appears.

Your doctor may also recommend a pain-killer or other treatments to help reduce your symptoms. If you are concerned about pain or any other shingles symptoms, speak to your doctor. Information about antiviral medicine is available from your pharmacist or doctor.