
Does Methylprednisolone Affect Shingles?

I am not sure...An RN prescribed the above med because she and I thought that I was allergic to
Amoxicillin which I took for a sinus infection. I have had no rash at all, but for two or three weeks I have had unpredictable itching. Sometimes the itching seems to be all over my body but only is red after I scratch the skin. What should I do?
YYYY@YYYY
Corticosteroids should not be used if shingles is the diagnosis
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
some doctors used to prescribe corticosteroids in the past (for shingles I mean) but they are not currently prescribed for that reason. Sometimes herpes may spread with corticosteroids. Antiviral medications are effective when used on time.
You haven't described your symptoms to me. If no rash has occurred after two-three weeks of symptoms then shingles would be very unlikely. Itching is not the main symptom of shingles either. Pain is the most commonly presenting symptom.
Itching is very much favoring the diagnosis of an allergic reaction, although the duration of itching makes it unlikely that the antibiotic caused it.
Did your symptoms improve with corticosteroids?
If you've had skin edema (urticaria) too then visiting an allergies specialist would be helpful.
Kind Regards!

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