Dupuytren's Disease

Medications

Medicines are generally not used as part of treatment for Dupuytren's disease. A long-acting corticosteroid medicine is sometimes injected directly into the affected area to help manage symptoms of the disease in its early stages, before one or more fingers bends toward the palm (contracture). Corticosteroids may also temporarily help improve hand function.

Medication Choices

Corticosteroid injections may be used to treat symptoms of Dupuytren's disease, but they do not cure or stop the progression of the disease.

What To Think About

Corticosteroids are not a long-term treatment option for Dupuytren's disease because repeated injections can permanently weaken the tissue and may cause other serious side effects.

Medicines under study for relief of Dupuytren's disease include interferon and collagenase.²

Go to previous section	Go to top of page	Go to next section
Author:	Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH	Last Updated: March 31, 2008
Medical Review:	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine David Pichora, MD, FRCSC - Orthopedic Surgery
© 1995-2008 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.