Condition

Chickenpox & Shingles

Antiviral treatments for chickenpox, shingles, and varicella infections

3 drugs
2 OTC
1 Prescription

Antiviral

Fights viral infections in the body

1

Aciclovir

Prescription

Cold sores (fever blisters on the lips), genital herpes, chickenpox, shingles (painful rash that comes from the chickenpox virus), herpes eye infections

Aciclovir Cream BP 5% w/wAcyclovir OintmentAcyvir Eye OintmentBafnacare 200mg TabletsBafnacare 400 TabletEmzor Aciclovir 400 TabletsEmzor Aciclovir 800 TabletsNorbarc Aciclovir Cream 5g

Skin protectant and anti-itch agent

anti-pruritic

1

Calamine; Zinc oxide

OTC

Itchy skin, heat rash (prickly heat), insect bites, mild sunburn, chicken pox rash, eczema, nappy rash, minor skin irritations

Calamine LotionEsoma Calamine LotionJawa Calamine LotionNino Calamine Lotion

Topical analgesic and counter-irritant

pain reliever applied on the skin

1

Menthol

OTC

Muscle pain, joint pain, body pain, headache (when rubbed on the forehead), blocked nose and cold symptoms, mild itching, insect bites, minor skin irritation

Polarice GelPriya Menthol Gel

When to see a doctor

Seek care if you notice any of the following

  • If you have chickenpox and experience difficulty breathing, or your breathing becomes very rapid or shallow, go to your nearest clinic or hospital immediately.
  • If you have chickenpox and your fever lasts for more than 4 days, or you have a fever that is very high (above 38°C), go to your nearest clinic or hospital soon.
  • If you have shingles and experience severe pain that does not improve with pain relief medication, go to your nearest clinic or hospital soon.
  • If you have chickenpox and show signs of dehydration, such as excessive thirst, dark urine, or dizziness, go to your nearest clinic or hospital soon.
  • If you have shingles and experience a rash that covers a large area of your body, or the rash becomes infected (with signs of pus or discharge), go to your nearest clinic or hospital immediately.

For guidance only — always consult a qualified healthcare provider.