Therapy aides Bell's palsy

Dear Dr. Donya,

I read The Jakarta Post dated Dec. 5 and was surprised that you had written about the same illness that my sister suffers from. Thank-you very much for sharing such information so that others are made aware of the malady.

My sister's doctor had prescribed Lameson and Lapibal pills. The doctor said that Lameson was to destroy viruses and Lapibal was a strong dose of B-12 vitamin. What substances are contained in these medicines?

My sister is still receiving acupuncture in Bandung. The program involves 12 sessions. She is also undergoing physical therapy in hospital. She looks better now and can raise her eyebrows and speak faster. Is it possible for her to skip the acupuncture?

-- Hadi

Dear Hadi,

Glad to hear from you again and especially that your sister is getting better.

The medication Lameson is methylprednisolone, which is a corticosteroid and is commonly used for Bell's palsy.

I think your sister is getting better with medication and physical therapy. As for acupuncture, I think she will be fine without it.

-- Dr. Donya