Shingles treatment, NHS Pharmacy First | Reliance Pharmacy group

Pharmacy First - Shingles

Shingles: why the first three days matter, and how Reliance Pharmacy can help

The clock is ticking

Shingles is the chickenpox virus waking up years later. It causes a painful, blistering rash in a band on one side of the body, often with tingling or burning a day or two before the rash appears. Antiviral tablets work best when started within 72 hours of the rash, which is why being able to walk into a pharmacy matters.

Who can use it

Adults aged 18 and over. Shingles on the face, near the eye, in someone with a weakened immune system, or in a pregnant woman needs a doctor the same day, and the pharmacist will direct you there.

What happens in the pharmacy

The pharmacist examines the rash in private, confirms it is shingles and checks how long it has been there. If you are within the treatment window, or a little beyond it but still developing new blisters, they can supply antiviral tablets under NHS rules. They will also advise on pain relief, which is often the biggest problem with shingles.

Protecting others and yourself

Keep the rash covered and away from pregnant women, babies and anyone with a weak immune system until it has dried. If you are 50 or over, ask us about the shingles vaccine, which greatly reduces the chance of it coming back.

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Book online at reliancepharmacy.co.uk or ask in any Reliance Pharmacy branch.

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