Effective Treatments for Psoriasis and Potential Side Effects

Effective Psoriasis Treatments and Associated Risks

Understanding psoriasis medications and their possible side effects
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder characterized by red, thickened patches of skin covered with white scales known as plaques. These patches can crack, bleed, or ooze, often causing discomfort, burning, and sensitivity. Though not curable, treatments focus on alleviating symptoms.

Biologic therapies for psoriasis: How do they work?

If traditional medications aren't effective, your doctor might suggest biologics that target the root causes.

Biologics are specialized drugs that:

Target specific immune system components.

Inhibit certain cells or proteins involved in psoriasis development.

Impede their normal activity to reduce inflammation and symptoms.

Help control flare-ups but may weaken immune defenses, increasing infection risk.

Monitor closely for signs such as fever, chills, or fatigue, and seek medical advice if these occur.

Common biologic medications include:

etanercept, infliximab, adalimumab, ustekinumab, golimumab, apremilast, secukinumab, Ixekizumab.

Most are administered via injection, typically prescribed for those unresponsive to other treatments or with psoriatic arthritis.

Potential side effects of biologics:

While effective, biologics can cause adverse effects due to immune suppression, including:

Headaches

Digestive issues like diarrhea

Joint pain or swelling

Respiratory infections

Nausea

Fungal infections

Oral retinoids and their side effects

One key oral retinoid is acitretin, derived from vitamin A.

Used primarily for severe psoriasis in adults.

Common side effects include dry skin, lips, hair loss, dry mouth, mood alterations, joint pain, and potential liver issues.

Severe effects may involve vision changes, persistent headaches, nausea, breathing difficulties, swelling, chest pain, fatigue, and yellowing of skin or eyes.

Immunosuppressant medication: Cyclosporine

For resistant cases, cyclosporine is prescribed to suppress overactive immune responses.

This powerful medication can cause side effects like headaches, high blood pressure, kidney issues, increased hair growth, infections, and swelling.

Antimetabolite treatment: Methotrexate

Trexall (methotrexate) is used in severe psoriasis cases unresponsive to other options.

It slows skin cell growth, reducing scales.

Possible side effects include fatigue, nausea, hair loss, eye redness, fever, and susceptibility to infections.