Psoriasis Medications
The physicians of Dermatology Associates of Plymouth Meeting are psoriasis experts and have developed innovative treatment plans for patients suffering from moderate to severe psoriasis. We understand how frustrating and debilitating this condition can be, which is why we work hard to find treatments and remedies that work for each patient and their individual needs. What works for one patient may not be effective for another. Now, thanks to new psoriasis medications and treatments, we're able to successfully offer relief to more patients than ever before.
Topical Treatments
Every case of psoriasis is unique and treatment modalities may differ depending on which area of the body is affected. For many patients, steroid or cortisone creams, ointments and lotions will help control psoriasis outbreaks. We'll prescribe weaker preparations for use on sensitive areas of the body and stronger preparations for controlling lesions on the scalp, elbows, knees, palms and soles. These must be used cautiously, and your provider at Dermatology Associates of Plymouth Meeting will give you specific instructions and ensure you understand them.
Steroid creams do not come without side effects, which is why it is important to be closely monitored by your dermatologist while undergoing treatment of psoriasis. Side effects of stronger cortisone preparations include thinning of the skin, dilated blood vessels, bruising and skin color changes. If you suddenly stop taking these medications, you may experience a flare-up of psoriasis and after many months of treatment, the condition may become resistant to the steroid preparations. For difficult-to-treat spots, your dermatologist may inject cortisone directly.
For psoriasis of the scalp, we can prescribe shampoos, oils, solutions and sprays that are proven to help with moderate to severe psoriasis. There are also non-prescription scalp treatment options that we may recommend depending on the severity of the outbreak, your hair length and lifestyle. Most of these treatments will have ingredients containing coal tar, salicylic acid or cortisone - all of which can reduce inflammation and therefore, itching caused by psoriasis.
Oral Medications
Oral medications for psoriasis can be extremely effective for relieving more severe psoriasis symptoms, especially when combined with topical treatments. Oral retinoids for psoriasis, which are synthetic forms of vitamin A, can be used for certain forms of psoriasis. There are other medications on the market now for psoriasis, such as Otezla (apremilast). We will work with you to determine if oral remedies for psoriasis are right for you and explain any potential side effects these medications could cause.
Biologics
This is a category of injectable medications which have become extremely popular in treating moderate to severe psoriasis. They are remarkable medications that can modulate the immune system and thereby, lower the inflammation that induces psoriasis. These new medications have changed the way we treat psoriasis. Your provider at Dermatology Associates will review these options with you in detail and provide the right therapy for you, based upon your condition.
Your Customized Treatment Plan
As with any treatment delivered at Dermatology Associates of Plymouth Meeting, your psoriasis treatment will be completely customized based on your unique needs. Our doctors may prescribe topical medications, oral medications or a combination of these with natural sunlight or ultraviolet light.
To learn more about your psoriasis treatment options, schedule your appointment at Dermatology Associates of Plymouth Meeting.