Infection viral infections Flashcards
CHICKEN POX (varicella zoster)/ SHINGLES (herpes zoster) TREATMENT?
ACICLOVIR
OR
VALACICLOVIR (pro-drug)
why may valaciclovir be given for chickenpox/ shingles
prodrug so greater BA due to being turned into aciclovir more efficiently in body -> higher conc of drug
aciclovir dose?
857
800mg 5 times a day 7 days
valaciclovir dose
1g tds for 7 days
Chickenpox 14+ years treatment
Can consider antiviral treatment within 24hrs of onset of rash
because these pts are at higher risk of bad symptoms
what should you never give in chickenpox under 16yrs
NEVER GIVE IBUPROFEN/ASPIRIN U16s-> can mask symptoms of infection
HERPES/SHINGLES SYMPTOMS?
Tingling sensation/burning/fluid-filled blisters
Shingles will follow pattern of individual nerves on 1 side of body
Can look like a belt/half belt around rib cage/torso
how to treat shingles symptoms yourself
paracetamol for pain
keep rash clean and dry -> reduces infection risk
wear loose fitting clothing
cool compress few times/ day
what to avoid in treating shingles yourself
dont let dressings/ plasters stick to rash
dont weat clothes with rough fibres that can irritate skin
how long does shingles usually take to heal
4 weeks
