Corticosteroids
This type of
psoriasis medication reduces inflammation and the turnover of skin cells and suppresses the immune system. Available in different strengths, topical corticosteroids (cortisone) are usually applied to the skin twice a day.
Short-term
psoriasis treatment is often effective in improving, but not completely eliminating, psoriasis. Long-term use or overuse of highly potent (strong) corticosteroids can cause thinning of the skin, internal side effects, and resistance to the treatment's benefits. If less than 10 percent of the skin is involved, some doctors will prescribe a high-potency corticosteroid ointment. High-potency corticosteroids may also be prescribed for plaques that don't improve with other treatment, particularly those on the hands or feet.
In situations where the objective of psoriasis treatment is comfort, medium-potency corticosteroids may be prescribed for the broader skin areas of the torso or limbs. Low-potency preparations are used on delicate skin areas.
Calcipotriene
This psoriasis medication is a synthetic form of vitamin D3 that can be applied to the skin. Applying calcipotriene ointment (for example, Dovonex®) twice a day controls the speed of turnover of skin cells.
However, because this psoriasis medication can irritate the skin, it is not recommended for use on the face or genitals. It is sometimes combined with topical corticosteroids to reduce irritation. Use of more than 100 grams of calcipotriene per week may raise the amount of calcium in the body to unhealthy levels.
Retinoids
Topical retinoids are synthetic forms of vitamin A. The retinoid tazarotene (Tazorac®) is available as a gel or cream that is applied to the skin. If used alone, this psoriasis medication does not act as quickly as topical corticosteroids, but it does not cause thinning of the skin or other side effects associated with steroids.
However, it can irritate the skin, particularly in skin folds and the normal skin surrounding a patch of psoriasis. It is less irritating and sometimes more effective when combined with a corticosteroid. Because of the risk of birth defects, women of childbearing age must take measures to prevent pregnancy when using tazarotene.
Previous
Add this article to your Favorites
Email this article
Print