Combination topical therapy for the treatment of psoriasis.
Dermatological research continues to move toward the goal of developing an effective psoriasis treatment that would rapidly clear lesions and provide long-term freedom from visible signs and symptoms. Currently, topical corticosteroids remain a pivotal treatment due to their effective anti-inflammatory properties; however, potential adverse effects associated with chronic application limit long-term continuous therapy. Vitamin D analogues provide another mechanism of action, reducing lesions through effects on both keratinocytes and on the cytokine environment. A topical combination of corticosteroid and vitamin D derivative appears to provide a balanced approach to psoriasis treatment. The development of clobetasol propionate foam 0.05% (clobetasol propionate foam/Olux) offers a convenient topical corticosteroid that can be used concomitantly, that is, immediately followed by application of calcipotriene ointment 0.005% (Dovonex). This regimen has been shown to offer an increased short-term efficacy compared with either agent alone. Continued application of calcipotriene ointment on weekdays supplemented by long-term clobetasol propionate foam pulse therapy on weekends appears to provide an enhanced maintenance of remission compared with calcipotriene monotherapy.
Department of Dermatology, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Las Vegas, USA.
James Q
JQ
Del Rosso Do
D000279:Administration, Cutaneous; D002117:Calcitriol / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000031:analogs & derivatives*; D002990:Clobetasol / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000031:analogs & derivatives*; D003879:Dermatologic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination; D006801:Humans; D011565:Psoriasis / Q000188:drug therapy*
D003879:Dermatologic Agents; C055085:calcipotriene; D002990:Clobetasol; D002117:Calcitriol