A 1998 survey of the National Psoriasis Foundation showed that only 26% of
members were satisfied with their current psoriasis treatment. These numbers
highlight a need for alternative treatments, and one of the treatment areas
currently being researched is that of immunotherapy.
Psoriasis is a condition that involves problems with the healthy functioning
of the immune system. Accordingly, researchers have evaluated treatments that
specifically target the immune system. This type of treatment is called immunotherapy.
Two such medications now used to treat severe psoriasis are cyclosporine and
methotrexate. Typically, cyclosporine and methotrexate are recommended when
psoriasis has not responded to treatment with topical (skin-applied) medications
such as ointments or creams.
While cyclosporine and methotrexate can help clear psoriasis lesions, these
medications can cause a variety of side effects. Some side effects can cause
serious problems and, therefore, people using these medications must be monitored
regularly by their doctors.
Current research focuses on medications that have fewer side effects, such
as those that focus on interupting certain immune responses present in psoriasis
rather than medications that target the entire immune system. The hope is that
these drugs, called biologics, will offer psoriasis relief while not
causing further problems. These medications include alefacept, etanercept, infliximab,
and adalimumab. While these medications are at differing stages of approval
for use, experts remain "cautiously optimistic" that these drugs will
prove safer than those currently available.
All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2025. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/healthfeature/gethealthfeature/Psoriasis-Treatment-Options