Psoriasis
Medications used to treat psoriasis.
What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a skin disease that causes itchy or sore patches of thick, red skin covered with silvery scales. These patches usually appear on areas like the elbows, knees, scalp, back, face, palms, and feet, but they can also occur on other parts of the body. Some individuals with psoriasis may also develop a type of arthritis known as psoriatic arthritis.
Symptoms and Causes
The main symptoms of psoriasis are the itchy or sore patches of skin. Psoriasis is caused by a problem with the immune system, which leads to a rapid process called cell turnover. In this process, skin cells that normally take about a month to reach the surface rise in just a few days. This can make psoriasis difficult to diagnose, as it may resemble other skin diseases.
Importance of Treatment
Psoriasis can last a long time, sometimes even a lifetime, with symptoms that come and go. If left untreated, it can lead to discomfort and may affect your quality of life. Factors that can worsen psoriasis include infections, stress, dry skin, and certain medicines.
Treatment Options
Treatment for psoriasis may include creams, medicines, and light therapy. A range of prescription medicines is available to help manage the condition.
When to See a Doctor
If you suspect you have psoriasis or if you experience symptoms, it is important to see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Medications used to treat Psoriasis
Several classes of medication treat psoriasis. Which is right depends on your health — that is a decision for you and your provider. Compare prices and coupons on any of them:
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Frequently asked questions
What does psoriasis look like?
Psoriasis causes thick, red patches of skin covered with silvery scales.
Where on the body can psoriasis appear?
Psoriasis usually appears on the elbows, knees, scalp, back, face, palms, and feet, but it can show up on other parts of the body as well.
What can make psoriasis worse?
Things that can worsen psoriasis include infections, stress, dry skin, and certain medicines.
How long does psoriasis last?
Psoriasis can last a long time, even a lifetime, with symptoms that come and go.
What is cell turnover in psoriasis?
Cell turnover is the process where skin cells grow deep in the skin and rise to the surface. In psoriasis, this happens much faster than normal.
Compare prices for psoriasis medications
33 medications — select one to compare prices and coupons.
- Acitretin
- Adalimumab Adaz
- Betamethasone Dipropionate
- Betamethasone Dipropionate Aug
- Betamethasone Sod Phos Acet
- Betamethasone Sodium Phosphate
- Betamethasone Valerate
- Calcipotriene
- Calcipotriene Betameth Diprop
- Calcitriol
- Cholecalciferol
- Coal Tar
- Cyclosporine
- Cyclosporine A
- Cyclosporine Modified
- Fluocinolone Acetonide
- Fluocinolone Acetonide Body
- Fluocinolone Acetonide Scalp
- Hydroxyurea
- Methotrexate
- Methotrexate Anti Rheumatic
- Methotrexate Sodium
- Methotrexate Sodium Pf
- Methoxsalen Rapid
- Mycophenolate Mofetil
- Prednisone
- Prednisone Intensol
- Salicylic Acid
- Salicylic Acid Cleanser
- Salicylic Acid Er
- Salicylic Acid Wart Remover
- Sodium Salicylate
- Tazarotene
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Condition information adapted from MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
Medication list sourced from RxClass (MED-RT, U.S. National Library of Medicine). Inclusion does not imply a medication is right for you.
Medical disclaimer: This information is provided for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional diagnosis or treatment. Always consult a licensed physician, pharmacist, or other qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.