What is the most effective treatment for shingles?

Anti-viral: Anti-viral medicines such as Acyclovir are usually prescribed. For pain, over the counter medicines like Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen (tylenol) are typically used. If you have open blisters in the area of your rash, over the counter topical antibacterial ointments like neosporin can be used.

Acute ot chronic?: If acute shingles, starting anti-viral therapy such as Valtrex (valacyclovir) or Acyclovir may help. Corticostroids (prednisone) are used by some, but evidence behind this practice in 50/50. Nsaids for pain and maybe short course narcotic analgesic for severe pain. If post-herpetic neuralgia, many options are available, including gabapentin, pregabalin, Lidocaine patch, and other topicals.