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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Erythema Multiforme?

Dear Dr. Rynne, I have been diagnosed with erythema multiforme. I have had an outbreak on my face, neck, arms and legs 6 times this past year. I have been given valacyclovir to help prevent the virus from reappearing. The outbreaks last about 2 weeks and have been causing me to miss some work. I just want to make sure taking this medicine in advance and continuing it for several months is not going to have any lasting side effects. Thank you, Wendy Larivee
Tue, 6 Aug 2019
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hello,

Erythema multiforme can be triggered by infections and medications. Herpes virus is a likely cause. Regular use of antiviral drugs is not recommended in the literature for erythema multiforme. Antihistamines can be used when there are rash and itchiness and according to the possible cause, treatment can be oriented towards the cause (in your case the antiviral- valacyclovir).

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Antoneta Zotaj,
General and Family Physician
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What Causes Erythema Multiforme?

Hello, Erythema multiforme can be triggered by infections and medications. Herpes virus is a likely cause. Regular use of antiviral drugs is not recommended in the literature for erythema multiforme. Antihistamines can be used when there are rash and itchiness and according to the possible cause, treatment can be oriented towards the cause (in your case the antiviral- valacyclovir). Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Antoneta Zotaj, General and Family Physician