What does antiviral treatment treat?

Doctors may prescribe antiviral medicine for infections caused by herpes viruses, such as cold sores, shingles, chickenpox and eczema herpeticum. Treatment may shorten the active phase, limit new lesions and reduce discomfort when started promptly. It does not treat bacterial or fungal infections, and the medicine chosen depends on the suspected virus, location and your health.

Blisters or painful skin can have many causes. A clinician may examine the rash and ask when it began, whether it is spreading, and whether you have fever or a weakened immune system.

Use the medicine exactly as prescribed and complete the advised course unless the prescriber changes the plan. Keep blistered areas clean, avoid picking them, and wash your hands after touching the rash. Do not share towels, razors or lip products while lesions are active. Ask before using a prescription antiviral if you have kidney disease, are pregnant, or take medicines that affect kidney function.

Seek prompt medical care for a painful or rapidly spreading blistering rash, eye pain or a rash near the eye, fever with extensive blisters, confusion, or difficulty drinking. Eczema herpeticum can need urgent treatment, especially when it appears on skin affected by eczema or in someone with reduced immunity.

Which virus do you suspect, and when should I start the medicine? How should I protect other people while the rash is active? What should I do if I miss a dose or develop a new symptom?