What topical cream or lotion is typically prescribed for shingles?

Zovirax (acyclovir): However systemic or internal treatment is a better choice because the virus is under the skin in the nerve root. Zovirax, Famvir or Valtrex (valacyclovir) are the prescription medications used for treatment of shingles. Oral steroids can help with the swelling and potentially decrease the pain.The vaccine can prevent shingles in people over 50.

Several: You can use Lidoderm patches which contain a local anesthetic (lidocaine) or zostrix (capsaicin) cream which contains cayenne pepper extract. They work in totally different ways. The Lidoderm suppresses nerve activity. The zostrix (capsaicin) depletes substance p which is one of the neurochemicals that transmits pain. Neither should be used on the open sores.