What is the typical duration of systemic antiviral therapy for HZO/VZV?

What is the typical duration of systemic antiviral therapy for HZO/VZV?

• A. 3-5 days
• B. 7-10 days
• C. 14-21 days
• D. 28 days

Answer: (B)

Treating herpes zoster with systemic antivirals is done to adequately suppress varicella-zoster virus replication, hasten lesion healing, reduce acute pain, and lower the risk of postherpetic neuralgia, especially when the ophthalmic branch is involved. The typical duration is about one week, with seven days commonly used and up to ten days if symptoms persist or in more extensive disease such as herpes zoster ophthalmicus. Standard regimens are designed to cover the acute phase effectively while balancing safety. A shorter course, like 3–5 days, generally wouldn’t provide sufficient antiviral exposure to control the eruption and healing. A much longer course, such as 14–21 days or 28 days, isn’t routinely needed in otherwise healthy individuals and increases the risk of side effects without added benefit.

Treating herpes zoster with systemic antivirals is done to adequately suppress varicella-zoster virus replication, hasten lesion healing, reduce acute pain, and lower the risk of postherpetic neuralgia, especially when the ophthalmic branch is involved. The typical duration is about one week, with seven days commonly used and up to ten days if symptoms persist or in more extensive disease such as herpes zoster ophthalmicus. Standard regimens are designed to cover the acute phase effectively while balancing safety.

A shorter course, like 3–5 days, generally wouldn’t provide sufficient antiviral exposure to control the eruption and healing. A much longer course, such as 14–21 days or 28 days, isn’t routinely needed in otherwise healthy individuals and increases the risk of side effects without added benefit.