Pharmacological management of lymphoedema is limited to modifying use of the medication causing the problem or better managing co-morbidities, as no drugs are specifically indicated to treat or prevent lymphoedema.¹³

Diuretics are not recommended for lymphoedema unless swelling is severe and other causes are involved, as the retained fluid has a high protein concentration driving osmotic pressure. Rather than clearing lymph drainage, diuretics may exert too strong an effect elsewhere on the body causing dehydration, electrolyte imbalance and hypotension.^13,34,35

Instead, management tends to be around using compression garments or bandages, exercise, massage, and possibly surgery to restructure lymph drainage or liposuction.¹²