Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease that causes red, dry, itchy patches of skin to develop across the body. Risk factors such as family history, obesity, smoking or stress can increase your likelihood of developing this condition. Though there is no cure psoriasis, a number of drug treatments are available to help you manage your symptoms.
Etanercept
Etanercept is a prescription medication that modifies the immune system by inhibiting the action of a specific inflammatory protein (tumor necrosis factor, or TNF), thereby controlling the inflammatory skin symptoms associated with psoriasis. Adalimumab and infliximab are two other prescription psoriasis drugs that rely on a similar mechanism of action to control symptoms caused by this condition. Etanercept must be stored in a refrigerator and can be self- or doctor-administered as an injection beneath the skin (subcutaneous injection). Side effects of etanercept can include flu-like symptoms, cough, weight loss and shortness of breath. Contact your doctor if you develop a skin infection, severe joint pain, skin bruising, or blood within your phlegm or stools.
Betamethason and Calcipotriene
Betamethason and calcipotriene, which are sold in combination under the brand name Taclonex, are topical prescription treatments intended to alleviate inflammatory symptoms associated with psoriasis.
Betamethasone (a corticosteroid) and calcipotriene (a form of vitamin D) are liquids applied directly to the affected skin. They should not be used on the face, underarms or groin area, warns Drugs.com, a website that provides up-to-date peer-reviewed information on currently marketed drug products. Side effects of these medications include burning, itching or discoloration at the application site or inflammation of treated hair follicles. If you experience severe side effects, such as worsened skin symptoms, nausea, vomiting, difficulty breathing, weight gain or loss, acne, increased facial hair or high blood sugar (hyperglycemia), speak with your doctor immediately to avoid additional medical complications.
Clobetasol
Clobetasol is a topical prescription adrenocortical steroid medication that acts to reduce skin inflammation in patients with psoriasis. This medication is administered as a lotion directly to the psoriasis-affected area, but should not be applied to the face, underarms or groin. Common side effects of this medication include mild skin dryness, burning, stinging or itching. Speak with your doctor immediately if you develop any severe side effects, including allergic reaction, acne, excessive hair growth, inflamed hair follicles, muscle weakness, unintended weight gain or discoloration of the skin.
