Viral infections in the elderly

Herpes zoster is more common with increasing age. Acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir are FDA-approved for treatment of this infection. However, because of their simple dosing regimens, valacyclovir and famciclovir are the preferred drugs. Elderly patients are at increased riskf or severe disease and complications and should be targeted for antiviral therapy. Corticosteroids can be considered in elderly patients with herpes zoster who have …