What does fact checked mean?
At Healthfully, we strive to deliver objective content that is accurate and up-to-date. Our team periodically reviews articles in order to ensure content quality. The sources cited below consist of evidence from peer-reviewed journals, prominent medical organizations, academic associations, and government data.
The information contained on this site is for informational purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for the advice of a professional health care provider. Please check with the appropriate physician regarding health questions and concerns. Although we strive to deliver accurate and up-to-date information, no guarantee to that effect is made.
What Drugs Can Cause Shingles?
No medications directly cause an outbreak of shingles, as shingles is caused by infection with the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). However, some medications can increase an individual's chances of developing a shingles outbreak.
If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, seek emergency treatment immediately.
Identification
The root cause of shingles is infection with VZV, which causes chickenpox when a person is initially infected. After chickenpox, the virus goes dormant in some of the body's nerve cells, and it is not known exactly why outbreaks occur in indivudals when they do.
Risk Factors
Nutrition Considerations for PLEVA Patients
Learn More
Two risk factors are known to contribute to the development of a shingles outbreak: advancing age and having a weakened immune system, according to the Mayo Clinic 1. There are several medications that can weaken the immune system.
Types
Medications that suppress the immune system include treatments for cancer, including radiation and chemotherapy, long-term use of steroids and medications used to help an individual not reject a transplanted organ, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Effects
What Is the Incubation Period for Shingles?
Learn More
The shingles vaccine cannot directly cause a shingles outbreak, although some people do develop a mild rash as a result of vaccination, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Considerations
People who are on medications that suppress their immune system should ask their doctors about the possible risks associated with these medications.
No medications directly cause an outbreak of shingles, as shingles is caused by infection with the varicella-zoster virus . The shingles vaccine cannot directly cause a shingles outbreak, although some people do develop a mild rash as a result of vaccination, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention .