Topical antipsoriatics 

What are Topical antipsoriatics?

Topical antipsoriatics are agents, which are applied on the surface, locally to treat psoriasis. These topical agents are available as creams, lotions, ointments and shampoos. Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition with itchy, dry, scaly patches. Psoriatic agents have different modes of action but in due course, they work to control psoriasis and prevent secondary infections.

Antipsoriatic refers to substances or treatments that are used to alleviate or treat the symptoms of psoriasis, a skin condition characterized by raised, red, scaly patches. These substances can be natural or synthetic and work by targeting specific mechanisms involved in the development of psoriasis.

Hydrocortisone creams and ointments. You can buy a mild corticosteroid like hydrocortisone without a prescription. For a few small patches of psoriasis, a mild hydrocortisone works well. If you have more than a few small patches, you’ll likely need a prescription corticosteroid to see results.

Applying medication to the skin or mucous membranes allows it to enter the body from there. Medication applied in this way is known as topical medication. It can also be used to treat pain or other problems in specific parts of the body.

Steroid creams or ointments (topical corticosteroids) are commonly used to treat mild to moderate psoriasis in most areas of the body. The treatment works by reducing inflammation. This slows the production of skin cells and reduces itching.

Common topical steroids prescribed for psoriasis include:
  • Clobetasol 0.05% (cream, ointment, shampoo, solution, or foam)
  • Triamcinolone 0.1% (cream or ointment)
  • Hydrocortisone 2.5% (cream)

Tacrolimus is a macrolide calcineurin inhibitor licensed for immunosuppression in transplant patients and topical administration in atopic dermatitis. Tacrolimus administered orally and in topical form has been shown to produce successful outcomes in patients with psoriasis.

List of Topical antipsoriatics