Cochrane: We reviewed the evidence about the effect of antiviral
therapy alone or in combination with any other
therapy, on Bell's palsy. Bell's palsy is a disease of the facial nerve that causes one side of
the face to be paralysed. Some studies have suggested that it is caused
by the same viral infections that cause cold sores (herpes simplex) or
shingles (varicella zoster). If this is correct, antiviral drugs would
be likely to help recovery. The paralysis is usually temporary even when
left untreated, although without treatment about one person in five is
left with permanent facial disfigurement or pain. A Cochrane
review has already confirmed the
effectiveness of corticosteroids in Bell’s palsy.
