Living successfully with pemphigus or pemphigoid is a challenge. Prescription drugs are required, many of which have side effects that often must be managed with other drugs. Additionally, these diseases can cause problems such as infection due to open wounds which may also require medication.

To best manage the disease and its side effects make sure you work closely with both your dermatologist and primary care physician. Become partners with them. Speak to your physician before making any medication change. Contact your physician if there are any new blisters or symptoms that could be caused by the medication.

The early weeks of treatment can be the most difficult. But with proper care pemphigus and pemphigoid in most cases can be controlled, and people continue to live active, productive lives. The International Pemphigus & Pemphigoid Foundation provides many services to help you during all stages of the disease. Learn more in the Services Provided section of this website.

Prescription Drugs

Several types of prescription drugs are used to treat pemphigus and pemphigoid. All of these decrease the autoantibodies that cause pemphigus and pemphigoid blisters.

As with all drugs, different doses are effective for different people. Pemphigus and pemphigoid patients must work closely with their doctors to find the most effective treatment for their individual case.

This section contains information about drugs commonly used to treat pemphigus and pemphigoid, corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, other drug therapies and other treatments, as well as their most common side effects. Side effects vary between patients. Since there can be drug interactions, and since other factors such as diet and lifestyle modify drug activity, make sure you discuss your entire medical regimen with your physician. This is especially important if you are also being treated for another medical condition such as diabetes or hypertension. Consulting with your local pharmacist can be a very effective way to find information regarding drug interactions as well.