How to treat Behcet's Syndrome | Oral Medication and More

Behcet’s Disease - Treatments

There is currently no cure for Behcet’s disease. Treatment strategies focus on controlling inflammation, alleviating the specific symptoms experienced by the patient and preventing serious complications. In mild cases, treatment is only necessary during acute flares and no treatment is necessary in between flares. In severe cases, medication may be necessary over a period of time.

Treatment usually includes one or more of the following:

Topical creams, gels and ointments

These are usually applied on the skin rashes or mouth/genital ulcers. They usually contain a steroid drug which reduces the inflammation and an anaesthetic drug which relieves pain.

Mouth rinses

These reduce the inflammation in the mouth and ease the pain and discomfort.

Eye drops

Eye drops containing steroids or other anti-inflammatory medications can relieve pain and redness in the eyes.

NSAIDs and COX-2 inhibitors

These oral drugs reduce pain and swelling of the joints, and are particularly useful inarthritis. However, long term use can cause kidney damage, gastric discomfort and even bleeding especially in patients with a previous history of

stomach ulcers. These drugs should also be used with care in patients who have heart disease, hypertension or a history of stroke.

Oral steroids and other immunosuppressive drugs

Medication such as prednisolone is often used successfully in patients with moderate or severe Behcet’s disease. It reduces pain and inflammation. Often steroids are used in combination with other immunosuppressive drugs such

as cyclophosphamide, methotrexate, azathioprine or cyclosporine. Since these medications suppress the immune system, there is a risk of infection. Other drugs that have been used to treat Behcet’s disease include colchicine and

newer therapies such as biologic agents (eg. etanercept and infliximab).

Rest and exercise

Sufficient rest is important when a patient is suffering from a flare. During the period of remission, doctors may recommend a regimen of moderate exercise such as swimming or walking, to help keep the joints strong and flexible.