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What Causes Itchy Rashes On The Upper Back After Taking Valtrex?

I was recently treated for a possible case of shingles with Valtrex. I now have an itchy, red rash on my upper arms, upper back and chest. Clothing really bothers me, so I have tried many different laundry detergents. Nothing has helped yet. Could it be a reaction to the Valtrex?
Thu, 15 Feb 2018
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Pathologist and Microbiologist,  's  Response
Hi

Greetings from HealthcareMagic!

I can understand your discomfort. Shingles is caused by the Varicella-Zoster virus. Generally shingles occur in patients who had suffered chicken pox long back or during childhood. The same virus is responsible for causing chicken pox. This virus remains in the body of the patient and causes shingles after long time in old age.
Valtrex is a very good drug for shingles. Valtrex is having very minimum side effects. Red rash is not a side effect of Valtrex. During the subsiding stage of shingles, itchy red rash may occur. So no need to worry, all the symptoms will subside soon.
If following risk factors are there, be careful:

1. if rash occur near an eye
2. if your age is 60 or older
3. if you have weakened immune system
4. if rash is widespread and painful

In the absence of these conditions, there is no need to worry. Your treatment is sufficient with Valtrex. Your itchy rashes are not due Valtrex and will subside soon.

Regards
Dr. VAMSI KRISHNA CHITTIMOJU,
Pathologist and Microbiologist
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What Causes Itchy Rashes On The Upper Back After Taking Valtrex?

Hi Greetings from HealthcareMagic! I can understand your discomfort. Shingles is caused by the Varicella-Zoster virus. Generally shingles occur in patients who had suffered chicken pox long back or during childhood. The same virus is responsible for causing chicken pox. This virus remains in the body of the patient and causes shingles after long time in old age. Valtrex is a very good drug for shingles. Valtrex is having very minimum side effects. Red rash is not a side effect of Valtrex. During the subsiding stage of shingles, itchy red rash may occur. So no need to worry, all the symptoms will subside soon. If following risk factors are there, be careful: 1. if rash occur near an eye 2. if your age is 60 or older 3. if you have weakened immune system 4. if rash is widespread and painful In the absence of these conditions, there is no need to worry. Your treatment is sufficient with Valtrex. Your itchy rashes are not due Valtrex and will subside soon. Regards Dr. VAMSI KRISHNA CHITTIMOJU, Pathologist and Microbiologist