What is a common drug used to manage herpes zoster aside from acyclovir?

Valacyclovir is a common antiviral medication used for the management of herpes zoster, also known as shingles. It is a prodrug that gets converted into acyclovir in the body, and it has the advantage of having improved bioavailability compared to acyclovir itself. This means that patients often require less frequent dosing, which can enhance adherence to the treatment regimen.

In the context of herpes zoster, the early initiation of antiviral therapy, such as valacyclovir, is crucial for reducing viral replication, alleviating symptoms, and preventing complications, including post-herpetic neuralgia. Valacyclovir is particularly useful for adults and can expedite healing and the resolution of pain associated with the condition.

Other options included, such as gabapentin, are utilized for symptom management, particularly for pain control but do not have antiviral properties. Metronidazole is an antibiotic used primarily for bacterial infections, not for viral infections like herpes zoster, and hydroxyzine is an antihistamine that may provide symptomatic relief from itching or anxiety but does not target the herpes virus itself. Therefore, valacyclovir is the most appropriate choice for managing herpes zoster alongside acyclovir.