Lichen Planus occurs as a result of various factors in the human body that trigger the immune system. These factors can range from other diseases, drug medications to environmental agents. In this case, we are going to concentrate on Lichen Planus instigated by drug medication referred to as drug-induced lichen planus or lichenoid drug eruptions. In particular, we’ll dwell on blood pressure medications that might activate lichen planus. Drug-induced LP can affect various parts of the body including the mouth, skin, arms, and legs too. In general, lichen planus affects about 1% of the adult population – 45-year-olds and above. Nonetheless, even children can be affected.
What Blood Pressure Medications Cause Lichen Planus?
It is important to note that not all drugs used for blood pressure will cause lichen planus. The main ones that have been linked to this autoimmune condition include; antihypertensive drugs, beta blockers, and angiotensin-converting enzymes (ACE) inhibitors. The administration of these drugs causes this condition as a side effect and more than often it clears away when the patient stops taking the drugs. Having a risk factor of developing lichen planus does not necessarily mean you’ll get it. Also, lack of the risk factor doesn’t imply you will not contract either. Since blood pressure medication is administered orally, they often cause oral lichenoid eruptions.
Lichen Planus and Antihypertensive Drugs
Antihypertensive drugs are used in treating hypertension with the aim of preventing high blood pressure complications. They are often used in combating strokes and heart attacks. Antihypertensive drugs have highly been associated with oral lichenoid eruptions. Oral Lichen Planus occurs in the mouth and appears as white lace-like patterns on the tongue or gums. With time, they may ulcerate and cause erosion where they look like red lesions with white borders. ACE inhibitors and Beta Blockers are a part of the antihypertensive drug classes. However, not all classes of drugs under antihypertensives cause drug-induced lichen planus.
Lichen Planus and ACE Inhibitors
Angiotensin-converting enzymes (ACE) inhibitors are used in the treatment of various illnesses including migraines and high blood pressure. They are effective in that they relax blood vessels by preventing an enzyme in the body from releasing angiotensin II. Angiotensin is an element that constricts blood vessels and releases hormones, which can raise your blood pressure. ACE inhibitors have been linked to mucosal lichen planus, which affects the mouth and genitals, especially in women. Studies have been done to establish the link and the results show an inverse relationship between ACE inhibitors and mucosal lichen planus. However, further studies will be relevant in confirming or denying this relation.
Lichen Planus and Beta Blockers
Beta Blockers also known as beta-adrenergic blocking agents or β–Blockers are used in the treatment of various heart problems. They are used for high blood pressure, chronic heart failure, irregular heart rhythm, ischemic heart diseases and atrial fibrillation. Beta Blockers function by blocking the effects of epinephrine hormone, i.e. adrenaline. They also help in opening up blood vessels to enhance blood flow. Lichen planus drug eruptions have been connected to the use of beta blockers that prevail in the mouth and various parts on the skin. So, this is an evident sign that lichen planus is a side effect of use of beta blockers. On the skin, drug-induced lichen planus manifest as small red/purple bumps with white flakes and streaks. They can erupt into blisters but are often painless.
Conclusion
As much as lichen planus can be caused by intake of different blood pressure medications, you should only stop taking them after checking with your physician. Drug prescriptions are made with an intention to treat a certain illness and missing the dosage can prove to be more fatal. Rashes due to lichenoid drug eruptions should clear up when you stop taking the drugs. This acts as a confirmation or rather diagnosis for the presence of lichen planus and your allergic reaction to the drug. In cases where the medication cannot be ceased, other alternatives are considered to relieve the symptoms.
Also Read:
- Android Apps For Blood Pressure
- Can Sugar Cause High Blood Pressure?
- Breathing Exercise To Control High Blood Pressure
- Ideal Blood Pressure for Men and Women
- What Is The Best Treatment For Lichen Planus?
- Can Lichen Planus turn into Cancer?
- Is Lichen Planus an Autoimmune Disease?
- Is Lichen Planus Caused by Stress?
