The purpose of this brochure is to provide basic information on commonly asked questions about Diphencyprone (DCP). It does not contain all the available information on this condition and certainly cannot be used in replacement of a consultation with your doctor or pharmacist.
What is DCP used for? DCP is a contact immunotherapy and can be used in the treatment of alopecia areata or viral warts. Use of DCP involves multiple visits to the hospital over several months. Contact immunotherapy is used in the treatment of severe alopecia areata which does not respond to topical treatments or intralesional steroid injection. DCP works by inducing allergic contact dermatitis where the mild inflammatory reaction is associated with hair regrowth. Evidence of hair regrowth may be seen as early as within three months but the time taken to achieve significant hair growth varies for individuals. Around 50% to 60% of patients achieve worthwhile hair regrowth.
DCP can also be used in the treatment of recalcitrant viral warts (warts that do not respond to usual therapy). It works by inducing a hypersensitivity reaction to trigger the immune system to fight the virus.
How is DCP being used?
Treatment is recommended to be continued for at least six months. If no response is observed after six to 12 months, it may be recommended to stop the treatment.What side effects can this medicine cause? What can I do about them? Treatment is usually safe. Any side effects are usually due to hypersensitivity to DCP and no long-term side effects have been reported. Possible side effects of DCP include:
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