Are opioids known to increase the risk for acute herpes zoster? Are they associated with risk for subsequent postherpetic neuralgia?
The answer to both questions is no. In addition to vaccination against zoster, studies have demonstrated that early (within 72 hours of symptom or rash onset) initiation of antiviral therapy and assiduous pain management, including opioids if indicated, may prevent the development or reduce the severity of PHN.
