Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the skin, and in some cases, the joints. The skin cells reproduce too quickly and accumulate into rough, hard lesions. Drug treatment for psoriasis includes a combination of topical preparations and oral drugs.
Goals
The goal of drug treatment for psoriasis is to alleviate symptoms. Drugs can be used to reduce inflammation and to slow the abnormally fast production of skin cells.
Considerations
The type of drugs used to treat psoriasis will depend, in part, on the severity of the disease. Psoriasis is measured by the National Psoriasis Foundation as being "mild," "moderate" and "severe." Topical medications are most often prescribed for mild to moderate cases; systemic drugs may be added to relieve moderate-to-severe symptoms.
Topical Options
Topical drugs that are applied to the skin plaques or lesions can contain salicylic acid, coal tar, synthetic forms of vitamin D or corticosteroids. Medicated ointments and creams help remove scales and reduce inflammation and itching.
Occlusion
Some types of psoriasis respond well to occlusion--covering the skin after applying topical drugs. Using occlusion dressings or plastic wrap can increase the effectiveness of the medications. People with inverse psoriasis, however, should not occlude their medications.
Systemic Drugs
Methotrexate and cyclosporine are systemic medications--those that are taken orally or by injection--approved to treat psoriasis. Moderate-to-severe cases of psoriasis may require the use of systemic drugs.
