"What Medications are Available for Treating Vitiligo?"

Medications for Treating Vitiligo

There are numerous medications for treating vitiligo, primarily categorized into topical medications and oral medications.

I. Topical Medications

1. Corticosteroids: Examples include halometasone cream and mometasone furoate cream. These medications possess anti-inflammatory properties, inhibiting local T-cell reactions and mitigating the impact of inflammatory reactions on melanocytes, thereby promoting melanin production and achieving the goal of treating vitiligo.

2. Beta-blockers: Such as chlorpromazine hydrochloride tincture and tacrolimus ointment. These medications work by inhibiting the proliferation of B lymphocytes in the immune system, reducing autoantibody production, and thus playing a role in treating vitiligo.

II. Oral Medications

1. Photosensitizing agents: Like psoralen preparations and vitamin D3 derivatives. These medications induce the formation of melanocytes in the body, increasing melanin content, and thereby achieving the purpose of treating vitiligo.

2. Traditional Chinese Medicines (TCMs): Such as Angelica dahurica, Angelica sinensis, and Sophora flavescens. These medications can regulate immune function and enhance skin metabolism, contributing to the treatment of vitiligo.

Patients should use these medications under the guidance of a physician to avoid adverse reactions from self-medication. Additionally, it is recommended that patients maintain good lifestyle habits, avoid staying up late, refrain from consuming spicy and stimulating foods, and consume more nutrient-rich foods like proteins and vitamins, which aid in replenishing the body's needs. Regular exercise can also help boost immunity.

If symptoms worsen or new symptoms emerge, patients should promptly seek medical attention at a reputable hospital for examination and treatment to prevent disease progression.