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Leprosy : Treatment
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Multidrug therapy
(MDT) is the cornerstone of the leprosy elimination strategy as it
cures patients, reduces the reservoir of infection and thereby interrupts
its transmission. MDT also prevents disabilities through early cure.
For purposes of treatment, leprosy is divided into two
types :
a)
Pauci-bacillary(PB)
leprosy : 1-5 skin lesions – Regimen of two drugs – Rifampicin
and Dapsone for 6 months;
b)
Multi-bacillary(MB) leprosy : >5 skin
lesions – Regimen of three drugs – Rifampicin, Clofazimine and Dapsone for 12 months;
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The drugs are provided in different blister packs for PB
and MB leprosy and for Adults and Children in each type. This has the
advantage that the compliance can be easily monitored. Additionally, since
the entire global supply is made through WHO, the
MDT blisters are not available in the open market, hence there is no scope
for misuse.
WHO has been able to provide MDT drugs free of charge to
all endemic countries since 1995. From 1995-2000,
the free supply was sponsored by The Nippon Foundation of Japan and from 2000
to date by the Novartis Foundation for Sustainable
Development. Novartis has assured the continuation
of the free supply until 2010, through WHO.
Frequently Asked
Questions
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