Can zoster run its course and go away without taking the antiviral?

Yes: The intensity of this disorder is quite variable. Some can self heal over a 2-3 week period with no meds and some will develop a chronic pain syndrome that persists for years,even with meds. The ones with the brief recovery likely have residual immune response or healthier response to the re-activation of the virus. However. a weakened immune surveillance is why it emerges.I would take the med.