I had shingles a few weeks ago - horrible. Those tablets worked for me, would hate to think what it would have been like without them.
I covered my rash with a massive lint pad that had a huge bandage attached to it, I could then tie the bandage up around my body. This was the best thing I did to stop my clothes from rubbing against the rash. Also my body felt very sore and I found it difficult to walk.
I got over it in 2/3 weeks. It's very miserable. Hope you feel better soon.