Oral zinc in recurrent Erythema Nodosum Leprosum reaction

Oral zinc sulfate was tried in Eight cases of recurrent Erythema Nodosum Leprosum. To control ENL, they required high dosage of clofazimine and steroids for prolonged periods. After instituting oral zinc, the dose of clofazimine could be reduced to 100 mg twice a week and steroids could be withdrawn completely. Four out of five patients who were not tolerating dapsone earlier, started tolerating dapsone. Incidence and severity of subsequent ENL was also reduced.