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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Is Gabapentin And Triamcinolone Advisable For Shingles Caused Due To Shingles?

I have a what appears to be a rash on my neck and right lower jaw under my lip area. The area started burning itching 2 nights ago and Friday morning there was redness and now there are bumps. I was thinking it could be a poison plant but my lower back has been hurting also. Last year about this time I had similar symptoms, and was diagnosed with shingles. I was given Gabapentin and Triamcinolone Acetonide Cream to use. Would I be safe in using these now?
Thu, 16 Jun 2016
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General & Family Physician 's  Response
Hello,
Thank you for your query.

Shingles is caused by the reactivation of the chicken pox virus and the rash due to this is usually limited to one dermatome of the body and on one side.
Occasionally multiple dermatomes are involved and rarely both sides of the body.
For instance, right side of the face or left part of the lower back.

Gabapentin is prescribed to treat nerve related pain and triamcinolone Is a synthetic corticosteroid given to treat allergic reaction or rashes with itching and inflammation.
If used alone in an active viral or bacterial Infection, can worsen it by suppressing immunity.

However, if used in conjunction with an antiviral (acyclovir) in case of shingles, can help alleviate symptoms quicker & provide symptomatic relief.

I recommend :
- a consult with your physician to confirm diagnosis
-treatment would based on what they find
-cool baths, ice packs (wrapped in a thin cloth) can help relieve the pain/itching /burning sensation.
-avoid hot baths, and harsh person care products.
- wear cotton/breathable material clothes and avoid sunlight
-stay well hydrated, avoid spicy foods.

Gabapentin will not worsen the problem but triamcinolone might. So please avoid these medications till you have seen your doctor.
Hope this helps.

Please let me know if there is anything to else I can help you with.
Wish you good health




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Is Gabapentin And Triamcinolone Advisable For Shingles Caused Due To Shingles?

Hello, Thank you for your query. Shingles is caused by the reactivation of the chicken pox virus and the rash due to this is usually limited to one dermatome of the body and on one side. Occasionally multiple dermatomes are involved and rarely both sides of the body. For instance, right side of the face or left part of the lower back. Gabapentin is prescribed to treat nerve related pain and triamcinolone Is a synthetic corticosteroid given to treat allergic reaction or rashes with itching and inflammation. If used alone in an active viral or bacterial Infection, can worsen it by suppressing immunity. However, if used in conjunction with an antiviral (acyclovir) in case of shingles, can help alleviate symptoms quicker & provide symptomatic relief. I recommend : - a consult with your physician to confirm diagnosis -treatment would based on what they find -cool baths, ice packs (wrapped in a thin cloth) can help relieve the pain/itching /burning sensation. -avoid hot baths, and harsh person care products. - wear cotton/breathable material clothes and avoid sunlight -stay well hydrated, avoid spicy foods. Gabapentin will not worsen the problem but triamcinolone might. So please avoid these medications till you have seen your doctor. Hope this helps. Please let me know if there is anything to else I can help you with. Wish you good health