Shot For Psoriasis
Systemic drugs are medications that are given either orally (pills) or as injections just below the skin (subcutaneous) or into the muscle (intramuscular), Since these medications enter the body's circulatory system directly, they are called systemic agents, and are usually reserved for patients with moderate to severe psoriasis, or for those with psoriatic arthritis. In addition, these medications are also used in combination with other therapies, including topicals and phototherapies, especially when a patient does not respond to a single type of treatment.
Currently, the most commonly used systemic agents for the treatment of psoriasis are methotrexate (Rheumatrex), cyclosporine (Sandimmune), and retinoids. These medications can provide significant benefit in clearing psoriasis, but they can have side effects. These side effects might occur either at the outset or shortly after starting the medication (acute side effects) or after prolonged use (long-term, chronic side effects). While on these medications, it is important to be closely monitored by your doctor. When taking any systemic agent, it is vital that the drug is taken as directed by your doctor.
