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.
Del Rosso Do
James Q
JQ
Department of Dermatology, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Las Vegas, USA.
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