A consultation where a specifically trained pharmacist assesses your shingles rash and, if appropriate, provides or prescribes suitable antiviral treatment under their expanded scope of practice authority.

Common signs of shingles include:

• A painful, blistering rash, usually on one side of the body
• Tingling or burning before the rash appears
• Mild fever or fatigue

Key benefits:

• Fast access matters — early treatment works best
• Treatment on the spot in many cases
• Practical advice on pain relief and recovery

This service may be suitable if you:

• Have any of the signs above
• Are early in the episode — treatment works best when started promptly

This isn’t suitable if the rash is near or affecting the eye, if you are immunocompromised, or if you are generally unwell — these need urgent GP or specialist assessment.

Shingles is assessed case by case, and timing matters — treatment works best when started early in the episode.

Your pharmacist will assess your individual suitability, including your relevant medical history and current symptoms, before proceeding. 

This consultation is for uncomplicated shingles only. If the rash is near or affecting the eye, or you are immunocompromised or generally unwell, seek urgent medical care. 

Ask your pharmacist for the relevant Consumer Medicines Information (CMI) if a medicine is provided.

Before Your Consultation

Be prepared to discuss:

• When your rash first appeared
• Whether the rash is near your eye
• Any medicines you are currently taking

During Your Consultation

Your pharmacist will assess your rash and symptoms before determining whether treatment can be provided — the sooner, the better.

The consultation may also include pain relief advice, or urgent referral if the rash is near your eye or you are immunocompromised.

What if the rash is near my eye?

Seek urgent medical care — shingles affecting or near the eye needs prompt specialist assessment and is outside the scope of this consultation.

How quickly do I need to be seen after symptoms start?

As soon as possible — ideally within a few days of the rash appearing, since antiviral treatment is most effective when started early.