Can I Stop Medication for Balanitis After Two Days of Treatment?

Discontinuation of medication for balanitis?

A few days ago, I visited a urologist because I had been suffering from balanitis for almost a month without improvement.
After examining me, the doctor confirmed it was inflammation and that there was no bacterial infection.
He prescribed the following three medications: B-gencin cream, Lonfadroxil capsules, and Dex-CTM2.
After applying the cream for two days, the area around the foreskin has turned white with no signs of redness, swelling, or itching, and there is no milky discharge.
Does this mean I can stop applying the cream, or is it just a temporary effect of the topical medication due to vasoconstriction? Given that I have had inflammation for almost a month, is it really possible for the condition to improve in just two days of treatment? Thank you for your response, doctor.

Li Weiwei, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/04/10

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology

It is indeed possible that it hasn't healed yet.
I do not recommend using B-gencin; instead, I suggest you purchase a single-ingredient antibiotic eye ointment to replace it.
Apply it for a few more days and see how the situation develops.

Reply Date: 2020/04/10

More Info

When it comes to managing balanitis, particularly after a short course of treatment, it's essential to approach the decision to stop medication with caution. Based on your description, it seems that you have been using a combination of topical and oral medications for your condition, and you have noticed significant improvement after just two days of treatment. The absence of redness, itching, and discharge is certainly encouraging, but it does not necessarily mean that the inflammation has completely resolved.

Balanitis can be caused by various factors, including infections, irritants, or underlying skin conditions. In your case, since the physician indicated that there was no bacterial infection, it is likely that the inflammation was due to irritation or a non-infectious cause. The medications prescribed, including the topical cream and oral capsules, are intended to reduce inflammation and promote healing.

While the improvement you are experiencing is a positive sign, it is important to consider the following points before deciding to stop your treatment:
1. Duration of Treatment: Even if symptoms have improved, it is generally advisable to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Stopping treatment prematurely can lead to a recurrence of symptoms or incomplete healing.

2. Underlying Causes: If the underlying cause of your balanitis is not fully addressed, symptoms may return. It is crucial to understand what triggered the inflammation in the first place. If it was due to irritants (such as soaps, lotions, or friction), you may need to make lifestyle adjustments to prevent future occurrences.

3. Consult Your Doctor: Since you have already seen a healthcare provider, it is best to follow up with them regarding your progress. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation and may recommend continuing treatment for a few more days to ensure complete resolution of the inflammation.

4. Monitoring Symptoms: If you decide to stop the medication, closely monitor your symptoms. If you notice any return of redness, itching, or discharge, it would be wise to resume treatment and consult your doctor.

5. Potential for Recurrence: Even after a successful treatment, balanitis can recur, especially if the underlying causes are not managed. Therefore, maintaining good hygiene, avoiding irritants, and possibly using a barrier cream may be beneficial in preventing future episodes.

In summary, while your improvement is promising, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider before making the decision to stop your medication. They can provide guidance on whether to continue treatment based on your specific circumstances and ensure that the inflammation is fully resolved. Taking a cautious approach will help prevent any potential setbacks and promote long-term health.

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