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Oral Lichen Planus: What meds & treatments have worked for you?
Greetings from Virginia! I was recently diagnosed with oral lichen planus. I'm an RN but had never heard of this condition before. I've seen my dentist, a dermatologist and a periodontist and still don't feel I have a viable treatment plan.
This is what I've been prescribed so far: Clobetasol Propionate ointment, 0.05% by my dentist (my dermatologist told me this was way "too strong."
Dental paste, by my dermatologist, which is the most miserable stuff to apply EVER. I've tried all the tricks, but it always gets on my tongue and cheeks when I try to apply it only to my gums. It's GROSS.
Dexamethasone mouthwash by my periodontist, just recently. This is definitely the easiest product to use -- but I can't really tell if it's helping yet. It does contain 5% alcohol, which surprises me since alcohol is supposed to be avoided.
I would truly like to find some non-traditional meds or supplements and will try increasing vitamin D and will add B12 (I already take a B complex nightly). Has anyone had success with anything else? Apple cider vinegar, other supplements?
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I recommend "Healing with DMSO" as a reference using this. Lots of info on use and mixing. Got it on Amazon.
Hello All, New to the group here.
I've been dealing with the same type of mouth issues mentioned by all of you for very long 7 months now. I just got a buccal swab and they think its Lichen Planus. I've been given a steroid paste, this stuff is the worse to apply and deal with, but 5 applications later I feel it's working.
My PA suspected OLP and refereed me to the ENT doc, who gave me the paste and said to give it two weeks and see where we are at, we can then do a biopsy if needed...agreeing with the possible OLP.
Interesting though.. my bloodwork showed I had high B12 and was asked to stop my supplement, but you mention taking it. I wonder if I should do just a B-complex.
I've learned over these last months that food affects the lesions greatly. So I am working on the diet.
My other concern is they associate OLP with Auto Immune issues, My father also had Lupus, an Auto Immune disorder. Hoping if this is OLP it I doesn't end up being something worse along with it.
I am going to ask about the mouthwash after this paste thing is over. Sounds like an easier solution. I mean... can you use a steroid paste long term? Looking forward to learning from you all on this crazy journey.
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2 ReactionsHi, I was diagnosed with OLP in April of this year and it was truely a nightmare until I found a great dermatologist. I initial went through my regular dentist, an oral surgeon and ENT dr who prescribed me a stroid paste as well. From 10/28 until a few days ago I was doing a dexmethasone swish and spit 2 x a day followed by Tacrolimus ointment. As of 12/5 I am only usiong the tacrolimus ointment and I started low dose naltrexone 1.5mg 2x a day. I have to say this is the best I have felt sine this started my mouth is almost completely cleared up except fore scaring and low dose naltrexone has no side effects for me so far. My biggest suggestion is to find a dermatologist and even better if they have treated it before. I also stopped eating anything spicy or acidic , and I mean anything. No carbonated drinks, no chocolate etc also went gluten free, dairy free and stopped sugar. I am hoping once I am in remission I can add a few things back in but that is not for awhile. I am wishing the best for you. If I can answer anything for you I will try.
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1 ReactionI suffer with OLP as well and it has returned with a vengeance. Thank you for this account of your various doctors, medications and diet changes. Was a biopsy ever suggested or performed?
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1 Reaction@shelmadine Yes I had a biopsy of my gum in May 2025.
Thanks for your response. Did the biopsy rule out cancer, lupus and confirm oral lichen planus? Or was it more focused on OLP?
@shelmadine it ruled out cancer, they did not test for Lupus. Did you have a period of time when OLP went away? Do you know what triggered it this time?
@zinnia55 never checked for Lupus
@zinnia55
No, I know undue stress can be a trigger, but I wasn’t experiencing anything other then everyday stress, which is plenty. I am leaning towards allergic or environmental reaction so maybe this is a combination of allergic reaction and OLP. It was sudden and pronounced. After doing some research, I have learned that beta blockers, hydrochlorothiazides and even ibuprofen can cause an allergic response. And this can happen after years of use. I have been taking a atenolol to control blood pressure. So it may be a matter of allergic response with OLP symptoms. I have an appointment with a dermatologist because there seems to be more than one thing going on. Thanks for your responses. The experiences of people on this site really help to move along in the process of diagnosis, healing and coping.
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1 Reaction@shelmadine I had also been told about beta blockers, meloxicam and ibuprofen as triggers/allergies or start of disease after years of use. I agree about this board, it has been helpful to me in several ways especially community. This disease is incredibly isolating and there are no normal pathways or support groups. I really hope your dermatologist appointment goes well! Share what you find out if you are comfortable with that. Take care.