Accelerated recovery and alleviated pain by oral whey protein in herpes zoster patients: a randomized controlled trial

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• Picked for Dermatology (top studies of the week, 26 July 2026): Oral whey protein accelerates recovery in herpes zoster

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Herpes zoster is usually caused by varicella-zoster virus reactivation, particularly in the aged. It imposes postherpetic neuralgia and impacts life quality, which may be improved by nutritional interventions. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and mechanism of oral whey protein supplementation in the recovery, pain, and life quality of herpes zoster patients. METHODS: Forty herpes zoster patients were recruited in Shanghai Dermatology Hospital and randomly divided into the treatment group (n = 20) and the control group (n = 20), with normal therapy. Whey protein was orally administrated 20 g per time, twice per day. The recovery time, pain scores (VAS), dermatology life quality index (DLQI), nutritional status (PG-SGA), oxidative stress markers, and immune parameters were investigated. RESULTS: Whey protein supplementation significantly reduced the recovery time and scabbing time compared to controls. Pain scores were decreased, and DLQI was improved. Nutritional status (PG-SGA scores) was improved, with increased serum prealbumin. Total protein and albumin were not changed. Oral whey protein increased the GSH content and GSH-PX activity, but the SOD activity, MDA content, and NO content were not altered. The serum contents of IL-6, IFN-γ, IgG, and IgA were increased, while TNF-α, C3, C4, CRP, IgE, and IgM, were not statistically changed. CONCLUSIONS: Oral whey protein adjuvant to standard therapy accelerated recovery, reduced pain, and improved quality of life in herpes zoster patients, probably by improving the nutritional status, enhancing the antioxidant system, and supporting the immune system, which highlighted the application of whey protein in herpes zoster therapy.

Abstract as published, via PubMed.