Several viabletreatment optionsare available forpsoriasis, including topical creams, oral medications, and phototherapy.

Prescription medication is often necessary to help you reach remission.

Medications are prescribed depending on the pop in of psoriasis you have.

Woman having telehealth appointment about medication

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When taken orally, side effects can include:

Who Should Use Them?

Oral medications are much stronger than other types, such as creams or ointments.

Who Should Avoid Oral Psoriasis Medications?

If the drugs given as topicals can control the disease, then no further treatment is usually sought.

Topicals are applied directly to the affected area.

They are absorbed by the skin and reduce inflammation that causes therash in psoriasisto form.

These medications are most effective for people with mild to moderate disease.

What Is the Most-Used Topical for Psoriasis?

They are administered through an injection or intravenously (through an IV).

Biologicswork by targeting the specific area of the immune system thats causingpsoriasis symptoms.

It does so byblocking inflammatory reactionsin the body that drive psoriasis development.

Some biologics also treat children with psoriasis.

Some factors that can increase this risk include:

How Long Does Treatment Take?

The length of treatment depends on the medication and the therapy results.

Nonprescription Treatment

Several OTC options exist for people with mild psoriasis.

Light therapy is done by exposing the affected area of the skin to ultraviolet rays.

It works by slowing down the overproduction of skin cells.

In some cases, light therapy will be combined with an agent known aspsoralen.

That is because not everyone will respond to the medications similarly.

To find the right treatment for you, meet with your healthcare provider and discuss your options.

They will be aware of your case, health history, and the severity of your condition.

If not, they will move on to more potent medications.

Summary

Psoriasis is an incurable skin disorder that must be managed for life.

Topical, oral, and biologic medications for psoriasis all have their own side effects and upsides.

Starting with topical medications is typically the beginning of therapy, but there is hope if they dont work.

Your healthcare provider will choose the right pop in of medication, depending on your case.

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