Skin
Medicines for Erythema nodosum
Tender red or purple lumps, usually on the shins, caused by inflammation of the fat under the skin — often triggered by an infection or another condition, and usually settling on its own.
Education and reference only. This explains which medicines are used and why, in plain language — it deliberately contains no doses and is not a substitute for advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Always discuss your own treatment with a qualified clinician, and check the BNF and the product labelling for prescribing detail.
Quick answer
What is Erythema nodosum?
Erythema nodosum is a skin reaction in which tender, red or purplish, raised lumps develop, most often on the front of the shins, and sometimes with a general feeling of being unwell, aching joints or a mild fever. The lumps are inflammation of the fat layer just under the skin.
- How it is treated: Management focuses on finding and treating any underlying trigger and relieving symptoms while the condition settles.
- Self-care: Resting, elevating the legs, and using simple pain relief ease the tenderness while the lumps settle.
- When to seek help: See a GP about tender red lumps on the shins, especially with feeling unwell, so any underlying cause can be looked for.
What it is
Erythema nodosum is a skin reaction in which tender, red or purplish, raised lumps develop, most often on the front of the shins, and sometimes with a general feeling of being unwell, aching joints or a mild fever. The lumps are inflammation of the fat layer just under the skin. It is not an infection of the skin itself but a reaction, often triggered by something else — such as a recent throat infection, certain medicines, pregnancy, or underlying conditions like sarcoidosis or inflammatory bowel disease. In many cases no specific cause is found. It usually settles by itself over a few weeks, with the lumps fading like bruises.
How it is treated
Management focuses on finding and treating any underlying trigger and relieving symptoms while the condition settles. Simple measures — rest, elevating the legs, and pain relief for the tenderness — help, and the lumps usually resolve over several weeks without scarring. Some investigations may be done to look for a cause, such as a recent infection or an underlying condition, which is then treated in its own right. Persistent or recurrent cases are assessed more thoroughly. Reassurance is important, as it looks alarming but is usually self-limiting.
For this condition, these medicines
Medicine classes used for Erythema nodosum
Each links to a full, dose-free guide — what it is, how it works, who can and cannot use it, side effects, interactions and FAQs.
Beyond medication
Lifestyle and self-care
Resting, elevating the legs, and using simple pain relief ease the tenderness while the lumps settle. Following up any identified trigger or underlying condition supports recovery.
When to get help
When to see a doctor
See a GP about tender red lumps on the shins, especially with feeling unwell, so any underlying cause can be looked for. Seek prompt care if you are very unwell, breathless, or the lumps are widespread or recurrent.
Not sure how urgent it is? It is always OK to call NHS 111 for advice, day or night.
Answers
Erythema nodosum: frequently asked questions
What causes erythema nodosum?
It is a reaction rather than a skin infection, often triggered by a recent infection, certain medicines, pregnancy, or conditions such as sarcoidosis or inflammatory bowel disease. Often no specific cause is found.
Does erythema nodosum go away?
Yes, it usually settles on its own over a few weeks, with the lumps fading like bruises. Treatment focuses on any underlying cause and easing the tenderness in the meantime.
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Erythema nodosum
- British Association of Dermatologists guidance
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