Virtually all treatments have side effects, and treatments for psoriasis are no exception. That's why the best course of action is to use the lowest dose that's effective for the shortest time needed. The goal is to reduce side effects by reducing exposure to a particular treatment.
There are several approaches to treatment that can minimize side effects. One approach is to use a therapy until psoriasis clears and then follow a less-frequent maintenance regimen. Another is combination therapy, in which two or more treatments are used together to permit lower doses of each. Rotational therapy is a strategy in which patients switch from one treatment to another. Finally, sequential therapy involves using a specific combination of treatments in a deliberate sequence.
Below, you'll find the most common side effects of topical treatments, systemic agents (including biologic agents) and light treatments. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for a complete list of side effects, and bear in mind that just because a side effect is listed does not mean that you will experience that particular problem.
Topical Treatments
Topical treatments—meaning those that are applied to the skin—include corticosteroids, vitamin D compounds such as calcipotreine (Dovonex), retinoids such as tazarotene (Tazorac), coal tar, anthralin and salicylic acid.
Corticosteroids:
Possible side effects include skin atrophy, stretch marks and red spots. Rarely, heavy long-term use can cause a hormone imbalance. ...
Copyright 2009 NBC Health
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