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Erythema Multiforme Treatments

Treatment

Treatment for this condition involves:

  • Eliminating the trigger or cause (if known)
  • Relieving the symptoms
  • Preventing infection of the lesions (in erythema multiforme major)

Treatment options include the following:

Management of Symptoms

  • Moist compresses
  • Oral antihistamines to help control itching
  • Topical steroid creams to help discomfort and itching
  • Acetaminophen to reduce pain and fever

Antiviral Medications

  • Given if the outbreak is caused by herpes simplex
  • Prevent recurrence
  • Not effective in treating the current rash
  • Most often used for people with frequent outbreaks

Erythema Multiforme Major

  • Oral or IV steroids—for severe cases may be treated with (there is some controversy about the effectiveness of this option)
  • Hospitalization—for widespread, life-threatening lesions

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2024 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.

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