Lupus Treatment

Lupus treatment

        Research has made great progress in treating the symptoms of lupus. However, there is no definitive cure for this disease. The drugs can improve quality of life by reducing the intensity of symptoms and by reducing the risk of complications and prolonging life expectancy. Ideally, the treatment should be administered with the least medication possible for the shortest time. Some people do not need any medication, others need or not absorb it during a brief period, but many people need to undergo a constant dose variables treatment.

Lupus Drug Treatments

       Prednisone. Prednisone is the most effective anti-inflammatory (corticosteroid type) in treating lupus. Used since the early 1960s against lupus, the drug has quickly become an essential element to improve the quality of life of patients. It helps reducing inflammation, improve energy and appetite. However, prednisone cause a series of side effects, including swelling of the face and body, easy bruising, mood swings, nervousness, increased blood pressure and osteoporosis. The dose is finely adjusted with the doctor to get the least possible adverse effects. The use of calcium supplements and vitamin D help reducing the risk of osteoporosis.

Lupus treatment pictures

        Cyclophosphamide and azathioprine are immunosuppressive agents that can decrease the activity of the immune system against its own organs and tissues. These powerful drugs are used in a small proportion of persons, where prednisone is insufficient to improve symptoms or when it causes too many side effects. These drugs also have their share of side effects, the most important are a greater susceptibility to infections and a higher risk of contracting cancer.

        Drugs against arthritis pain. Acetaminophen is usually enough to soothe sore joints. If this is not the case, anti-inflammatory drugs prescribed by doctors can be used. Doctors advise against people with lupus to take anti-inflammatory drugs on their own, because these medications can cause side effects that make the appearance of symptoms of lupus. Drugs cons rashes. Hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine are also used drugs to treat lupus - and can treat skin rashes caused by exposure to sunlight. One or other of these medications can be taken from spring to fall. Hydroxychloroquine also helps to alleviate fatigue and treat arthritis.