Abstract:
Background: Conventional treatment of herpes zoster is based on antiviral agents, combined with analgesics
and, in some cases, corticosteroids for pain and inflammation control. This approach is most effective when
initiated early; however, it does not completely eliminate the virus and does not always prevent complications
such as postherpetic neuralgia. Its limitations include reduced efficacy when treatment is delayed, incomplete
pain control, and lack of effect on viral latency. In this context, complementary therapies such as ozone therapy
are gaining increasing interest.
Objective of the study: To analyze the role of ozone therapy in the management of herpes zoster and to
evaluate its potential integration as a complementary approach in clinical practice.
Material and methods: A narrative study based on the analysis of recent scientific literature regarding the
use of ozone therapy in viral infections, with a focus on herpes zoster. Clinical studies, review articles, and
relevant guidelines published between 1990 and 2026 were included, sourced from databases such as PubMed,
Hinari (Health InterNetwork Access to Research Initiative), SpringerLink, National Center of Biotechnology
Information, and Medline.
Results: Analysis of the available literature suggests that the addition of ozone therapy to standard treatment
in herpes zoster may lead to a reduction in pain by approximately 50–80%, along with accelerated healing of
skin lesions by 20–30%. Furthermore, a decrease in the incidence of postherpetic neuralgia by approximately
30–50% and an overall reduction in disease duration by 20–40% have been reported. These effects are
attributed to the antiviral, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and microcirculatory-enhancing properties
of ozone.
Conclusions: Ozone therapy may represent a promising complementary option in herpes zoster, with the
potential to reduce pain, inflammation, and disease duration.
