Treatment options for mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) include corticosteroids, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and other immunosuppressants. Although none of these options offer a cure, they do help manage the symptoms and signs of MCTD. Corticosteroids such as prednisone are the most commonly used treatment for moderate cases of MCTD, even though they carry their own risks if taken at high doses or over long periods of time. Over-the-counter NSAIDs like ibuprofen or stronger prescription-strength NSAIDs can reduce the pain and inflammation associated with MCTD but also carry some risk with long-term use. Other immunosuppressant medications may be used if your MCTD symptoms most mimic one of the other connective tissue diseases, such as lupus.
Some people with mild MCTD only require medications with flare-ups of their disease, while others with moderate or extreme cases of MCTD may need daily medications to manage their symptoms.
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