Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease that causes the skin to appear red, irritated, dry and scaly. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that more than 6 million people have been diagnosed with this condition in the United States. If you suffer from psoriasis, a number of prescription medications are available to help you manage your symptoms. Speak with your doctor to discuss treatment options for psoriasis.
Corticosteroids
Topical prescription steroids, such as corticosteroid creams or lotions, can be applied directly to the psoriasis-affected skin to reduce inflammation and irritation. Low-strength topical steroids, such as desonide or hydrocortisone, should be used to treat lesions on the face, breasts or groin, because these skin regions tend to be more sensitive, the National Psoriasis Foundation warns.
Methotrexate
Methotrexate is an oral prescription medication that suppresses the response of the immune system and inhibits skin cell growth in patients with psoriasis. This medication is typically taken once or twice each week and may cause certain side effects, such as stomach upset, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting or fatigue. Serious side effects, such as shortness of breath, flu-like symptoms, jaundice or blood in the urine or stools, can occur with methotrexate use and should be immediately reported to your doctor.
Cyclosporine
Cyclosporine is an oral prescription immunosuppressant medication that can help alleviate inflammatory symptoms in patients with psoriasis. Side effects of this medication can include dizziness, headache, increased hair growth, nausea, vomiting, sleeplessness, coughing or acne. Severe side effects, such as heartbeat irregularities, breathing difficulties or unusual bruising, can also occur in certain patients receiving cyclosporine treatment. Such severe symptoms should be immediately reported to your doctor.
Acitretin
Acitretin is an oral prescription medication that contains retinoid (vitamin A) and has been demonstrated to effectively manage symptoms associated with severe psoriasis through an unknown mechanism of action. An additional topical moisturizing foam is also provided with this prescription, which helps alleviate chapped, dry skin when applied directly to the affected skin. Acitretin should not be used by women who are pregnant because this medication can cause severe birth defects. Side effects of acitretin can include weak nails; runny nose; hair loss; or dry mouth, nose, eyes or lips. Severe side effects such as muscle pain, severe headache, blurred vision, suicidal thoughts, abnormal vaginal discharge or jaundice should be reported to your doctor immediately.
Adalimumab
Adalimumab is a prescription medication that inhibits the body's inflammatory response by blocking the action of an inflammatory protein called tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). This can decrease the skin irritation and inflammation experienced by patients with psoriasis. Additional psoriasis medications that work by targeting this protein include infliximab and etanercept. Adalimumab must be stored in the refrigerator and is administered by an injection beneath the skin (subcutaneous injection). Side effects of this medication include back pain, nausea, headache or injection site reaction. Immediately report severe side effects of this medication, such as severe infection, skin blisters, difficulty breathing, chest pain, muscle weakness or allergic reaction, to your doctor.
