Medication Options to Treat Psoriasis

Overview

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects the skin, causing red, scaly patches to develop. There are several different types of medications used to treat psoriasis. Each medication type has a different effect in helping to treat the condition, and they also come with their own precautions and potential side effects. Let's take a closer look at each medication type:

• Topical Medications:
• Effect: Topical medications are applied directly to the skin and help decrease inflammation, relieve itching, and block skin cell production. They are commonly used for mild to moderate psoriasis.
• Precautions/Side Effects: Some topical medications contain steroids, which may have potential side effects like thinning of the skin, dilated blood vessels, stretch marks, and pimples. Doctors typically limit the use of topical steroids to no more than 2 consecutive weeks for most medications.
• Systemic Medications:
• Effect: Systemic medications affect the entire body, rather than just the skin. They can be taken orally or by injection and are often used for moderate to severe psoriasis.
• Precautions/Side Effects: Common systemic medications include cyclosporine, methotrexate, apremilast, and oral retinoids. While these medications can be effective on their own, they are associated with side effects that range from mild to severe. Using them in combination with other treatments allows for a lower dose and potency, which makes side effects less likely.
• Biologics:
• Effect: Biologics, also known as biological response modifiers, are protein-based drugs that target key immune cascades in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. They are often used when other medications fail to provide relief.
• Precautions/Side Effects: Biologics are administered via infusion or injection and work to reduce the autoimmune response associated with psoriasis. While they can be helpful for many people, they may have their own set of precautions and potential side effects.

It's important to note that each person's experience with these medications may vary. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment or medication for psoriasis. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific needs and medical history.

Medication type and dosing are affected by many factors and may be different for each person, and additional side effects may happen. Talk to your doctor for personalized advice and read the information provided with your medication.