I have been thinking about the shingles shot. Should we get the shingles preventive shot? I have been thinking what if one of us gets shingles along the TN nerve.
My understanding is that the shingles shot reduces one’s risk of getting shingles. But at the same time there is a risk of getting it from the shot because it is a live virus. But the risk is very small and the risk is greater for those who take steroids or who are taking drugs which suppress their immune systems. I am just concerned about shingles on the TN nerve. And you are right. You can get shingles more than once.
Ro,
I found something about tegretol affecting the immune system but I didn’t see anything on neurontin, lyrica or trileptal. I’m not sure which meds are the most common ones used for TN.
Liz K.
That is so true, Ro. I first got shingles in July 2007. I now have had them four times. I have had someone tell me that once you get them, you can never get them again. That simply is not true. I have had them along my right jawline and neck area but they luckily did not cause a TN episode. I am not aware of TN meds causing supressed immune systems. I would assume the stress and pain alone, overtime could have horrible effects on ones immune system. I’m surprised Tegretol is found to have an effect but Trileptal isn’t. I’m going to look into that. Thanks for the info, Liz and Ro!
Nancy,
I’m most of afraid of shingles on the TN nerve. It may not be any worse than shingles on any other nerve but I’m just scared of anything that may irritate that nerve.
Liz