clear or almost clear skin, as did 23 percent of those on the lower dose. That compared with eight percent of placebo users, according to the report.
By week 12, those rates were up to 38 percent and 32 percent in the two medication groups, and 16 perent in the placebo group. There were no signs the medication caused skin irritation, Lebwohl shares.
However, the study was only short-term. Lebwohl says a larger trial is underway, and it will test the cream over a longer period.
If that trial goes well and the drug is approved, a real-world hurdle could arise cost.
Topical corticosteroids are fairly cheap, and the new alternative would presumably be much pricier. “Ultimately, access will be an issue,” Lebwohl says.
Eichenfield says he doubts topical corticosteroids would be abandoned — not only because of cost, but because they have a long history of use.
For people with psoriasis, Eichenfield shares that it’s important to be aware there are newer treatment options — pills and, possibly, a topical medication on the horizon.
READ: Ten Ways To Prevent Psoriasis Flare-Ups
Other ways to improve Psoriasis treatment
If you are unsure of your condition, you should consult with your doctor. It also helps to pay close attention to how psoriasis appears on different skin colors. This can improve diagnosis and treatment.
You should also make lifestyle changes to the following to avoid a psoriasis flare-up:
- stress
- injury
- alcohol
- certain foods
- medications
- other infections