Think you may have shingles? If you’re eligible, we can assess you and supply antiviral tablets under the NHS Pharmacy First service—often without needing a GP appointment.
Fast help for shingles — NHS Pharmacy First
If you think you have shingles, you may be able to get a same-day assessment and, if suitable, antiviral treatment supplied under the NHS Pharmacy First service..
NHS service • Confidential consultation • Pharmacist-led
What is shingles?
Shingles (herpes zoster) is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. It usually starts with pain, tingling or burning on one side of the body, followed by a blistering rash.
Common signs
Pain, stinging, or sensitivity to touch
A red rash that becomes fluid-filled blisters
Rash typically on one side of the body (often chest/abdomen)
If you’re unsure, we’ll assess you and guide you to the right care pathway.
Who can use this NHS service?
This service is for adults aged 18+ with suspected shingles, within specific time windows from rash onset.
PRN01010-2a.-shingles-aciclovir…
You may be eligible for antiviral treatment if:
A) Rash started within 72 hours and you have any of the following
Shingles on limbs or perineum
Moderate or severe pain
Moderate or severe rash (confluent lesions)
Age over 50
OR
B) Rash started within 7 days and you have any of the following:
New blisters still forming
Severe pain
Higher risk of severe shingles (e.g. severe eczema/atopic dermatitis)
Age 70 or over
.
Who is NOT suitable under this PGD (and what we’ll do instead)
Some symptoms and situations need GP or urgent care instead of treatment under this particular NHS pathway.
We’ll refer you urgently if needed, including (examples):
Shingles affecting the head or neck, or suspected eye involvement (especially rash on the nose tip/side/root, eye symptoms, or a red eye)
Signs of serious complications (e.g. meningitis/encephalitis symptoms, facial weakness)
Severe immunosuppression
Rash started more than 7 days ago
Pregnancy (known/suspected)
CKD stage 4–5 (eGFR <30)
Certain interacting medicines (we check this carefully)
Don’t worry — if you’re not eligible under this PGD, we’ll explain why and signpost you to the right urgent or routine service.
.
What happens in the consultation?
1) Quick clinical assessment
We’ll confirm whether your symptoms fit shingles and check timing since the rash started.
2) Medicines & safety check
We’ll review allergies, current medicines, kidney history, and any red flags.
3) Treatment (if eligible)
If you meet the criteria, we can supply aciclovir tablets under the NHS PGD. Typical course is 7 days, taken five times daily during waking hours.
4) Advice & safety-netting
You’ll leave with clear advice on pain relief, infection control, and what to do if symptoms worsen.
What to bring
A list of your current medicines (or bring them with you)
Any allergy information you know
Rough time/date the rash first appeared
Self-care advice while you recover
We’ll tailor this to you, but general advice includes:
Keep the rash clean and dry
Wear loose clothing
Avoid topical creams and adhesive dressings unless advised (can irritate/delay healing)
Avoid contact with people at higher risk (pregnant people, immunosuppressed, newborns) until blisters crust over
Pain relief (simple options)
For mild to moderate pain, we may recommend suitable over-the-counter options (depending on your health and medicines), such as paracetamol or ibuprofen where appropriate.
When to seek urgent help
Call 999 or go to A&E if you develop signs of severe infection/sepsis or serious neurological symptoms. We’ll explain exactly what to look out for during your consultation.
FAQ
Is this service free?
Yes — if you’re eligible, assessment and supply under NHS Pharmacy First is an NHS service.
How soon should I come in?
As soon as possible — eligibility depends heavily on how many hours/days since the rash started.
Can you treat shingles on the face or near the eye?
Those cases usually need urgent medical assessment rather than supply under this aciclovir PGD.
What if I’m on lots of medicines or I struggle with frequent doses?
Tell us — the PGD highlights that a five-times-daily regimen may not be suitable for some people, and an alternative pathway may be needed
Will you inform my GP?
Yes — the service requires notifying your GP practice about the consultation/supply.