Prescription Options for Psoriasis

Friday, February 3rd

More than just an aggravating skin rash, psoriasis can have devastating consequences in its severest form and can be quite difficult to deal with even if it is mild. While the future holds exciting breakthroughs in medications used to fight psoriasis, those drugs are still awaiting FDA approval. This means that psoriasis patients have to deal with their condition with the traditional options of the past for the time being.

Since psoriasis is caused by an immune response in the skin, medications such as topical steroids are commonly used to handle this skin disorder. Some of the weaker topical steroids like corticosteroids can be purchased over the counter, but for the most part steroids have to be prescribed and monitored by a doctor.

Medicines and Alternatives Commonly Used for Psoriasis

While steroid creams make up the bulk of psoriasis options, they are not the only products available to psoriasis patients. Here is a quick overview of just some of the choices that might be right for you:

Phototherapy - For the past 80 years, patients have been successfully dealing with their psoriasis with ultraviolet rays and sunlight. One of the oldest forms of phototherapy involves ultraviolet B or UVB. A newer twist on this option is called narrow band UVB and is more effective although it is not known if it is as safe as the older method. Lasers are another form of phototherapy for psoriasis as well as a form of light process called PUVA. In this form of psoriasis relief, the patient takes a pill and then is exposed to UVA. While this option is very effective, it is also known to contribute to the development of skin cancers.
Methotrexate - Is an oral medication that was developed for use in chemotherapy. It is usually administered once a week and is quite effective. The downside of this medication is that it can build hepatic toxicity if it is not monitored closely.
Cyclosporin - This is a medication that has many side effects and is normally used only in severe cases or as a last resort after other options have failed.

Since many of these medications have risks and side effects that can potentially cause a great deal of harm to the patient, it is not uncommon for doctors to revolve or rotate prescribed options. This lessens the risk of developing side effects since the patient is not exposed to only one method for a long period of time. Some of the options mentioned above will also actually contradict the side effects caused by other medications. So a cycle of medications, along with topical steroids, and phototherapy can be ideal for a good number of patients.

Newer medications will hopefully eliminate the need for rotating choices by providing an effective course of action without the fear of side effects if the medications are taken for a long period of time.

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Eczema Product FAQ

What is eczema?

Eczema is an itchy inflammation of the skin. The main symptom is a rash that is usually found on the arms or behind the knees, but it can appear anywhere on the body. The skin will usually feel dry and bumpy and may appear cracked.

What causes eczema?

Eczema is usually developed in early childhood and is most common with people who have a family history of the condition. There are certain triggers that can cause eczema to flare up like certain soaps, detergents, wool, dry skin, heat, or emotional stress. Allergens like dust mites, molds, pollen, or food can also be the reason that eczema appears. It is often hard to identify the exact reason that you or your child has eczema.

Is eczema a harmful condition?

If you have eczema, it will not cause any harm to the other areas of your body unless it's left alone and eventually causes a skin infection. The main reason this is a condition people want to get rid of is because it can be extremely uncomfortable. Itching may be intense and scratching only further irritates the skin and causes sores.

How can I get rid of eczema?

Experts usually recommend avoiding soap and other irritants if you're experiencing eczema. These can dry out the skin and make the problem worse. To fully heal from eczema, you may be offered prescription medicines from a doctor, but these could be expensive. Fortunately, there are many highly-rated, safely-developed options you can find online to find fast relief from your eczema.

Are eczema products safe?

Yes! The eczema products available online are developed specifically to nourish skin and heal eczema without causing any further damage or side effects. Some formulas are made with 100% natural ingredients derived from plant sources. You're more likely to find a treatment without harsh chemicals online than if you use a prescription from a doctor.

How much do eczema products cost?

Effective eczema treatments can cost as little as $10! Depending on how severe your case is and how many areas of eczema need to be treated, you may need to purchase a few bottles of an oil or cream, but you'll find that no matter the route you go, you won't pay much. Eczema is a condition that can be treated affordably and quickly.

How are eczema products applied?

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What if I try an eczema product that doesn't work for me?

If you don't have success with the eczema product you use, check to see if it came with a money-back guarantee. Many companies stand by their products with an offer to get a refund if you weren't satisfied with your results. If not, you probably didn't lose too much money since eczema products are so affordable; try a new cream or ointment in hopes that it works better.