Tetracycline and Nicotinamide for the Treatment of Bullous Pemphigold: Our Experience in Singapore

ATJ Goon, SH Tan, LSW Khoo, T Tan
Correspondence: Dr Anthony Goon Teik Jin

ABSTRACT
Aim of Study To study the efficacy of tetracycline (or doxycycline) and nicotinamide in the treatment of less extensive bullous pemphigoid.
Methods An open trial of 11 patients with bullous pemphigoid. Treatment was initiated with tetracycline 1.5-2 g/day and nicotinamide 1.5-2 g/day and gradually tapered down. Doxycycline was substituted for tetracycline in patients who could not tolerate tetracycline due to gastrointestinal side effects or headache.
Results 6 out of 11 patients achieved complete response (> 90% decrease in lesions) while another 2 had partial response (50-90% decrease in lesions).
Conclusion Tetracycline/doxycycline and nicotinamide is a useful alternative treatment for localized bullous pemphigoid, especially in those whose concurrent medical illnesses preclude the use of systemic corticosteroids.

Keywords: Bullous pemphigoid, tetracycline, nicotinamide
Singapore Med J 2000; 41(7): 327-330