Pharmacological Treatment of Skin Disorders

Drugs for Leprosy: Multi-Drug Therapy, Mechanisms, and Side Effects

Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae. Effective treatment relies on multi-drug therapy (MDT), which consists of a combination of antibiotics to prevent resistance and achieve a complete cure.

Multi-Drug Therapy (MDT) for Leprosy

• Dapsone: A bacteriostatic sulfone that inhibits folic acid synthesis in M. leprae.
• Rifampicin: A bactericidal drug that targets bacterial RNA synthesis.
• Clofazimine: A lipophilic drug with anti-inflammatory and anti-mycobacterial properties.

Mechanism of Action

The combined action of MDT prevents bacterial resistance, ensures eradication of M. leprae, and reduces disease transmission.

Side Effects of MDT

• Dapsone: Can cause hemolytic anemia, methemoglobinemia, and hypersensitivity reactions.
• Rifampicin: Hepatotoxicity, orange discoloration of bodily fluids.
• Clofazimine: Pigmentation changes, gastrointestinal disturbances.

Conclusion

MDT remains the cornerstone of leprosy treatment, ensuring complete eradication while minimizing drug resistance. Early diagnosis and adherence to prescribed regimens are critical for successful outcomes.