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Treatment of reactions

Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy

Authoring team

Type I reactions:

  • salicylates
  • chloroquine
  • non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents
  • corticosteroids are indicated when there is:
    • severe nerve involvement, or nerve abscess
    • impending paralysis
    • extensive and acutely inflamed skin lesions
  • physiotherapeutic measures, such as rest and splinting

Mild type II reactions:

  • salicylates, chloroquine and non-steroidals are again the mainstay

Moderate/severe type II reactions:

  • thalidomide (300-400mg/day) is the drug of choice
  • clofazimine (200-300mg/day) may be useful but is slow-acting and may have toxic effects with prolonged use
  • corticosteroids are best avoided except in patients with severe neuritis, eye complications or orchitis

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