Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsPrescription MedicationsOTC ProductsPhototherapyFAQNext in Plaque Psoriasis GuideHow to Soften Plaque Psoriasis Scales
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Table of Contents
Prescription Medications
OTC Products
Phototherapy
FAQ
Next in Plaque Psoriasis Guide
Chronicplaque psoriasis, also known as psoriasis vulgaris, may be treated with medications including topical ointments, light therapy, and prescription medications. These treatments help remove scales and prevent skin cells from growing too fast.
While there isn’t a cure for chronic plaque psoriasis, these treatments, along with skincare and lifestyle changes, can also help you manage the condition.
This article will go over the different treatment options for chronic plaque psoriasis.
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.See PhotoReproduced with permission from © DermNet New Zealand www.dermnetnz.org 2023.
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.See Photo
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNet New Zealand www.dermnetnz.org 2023.
What Causes Chronic Plaque Psoriasis?
Prescriptions for Chronic Plaque Psoriasis
Topical corticosteroids (steroids) are the most effective treatment for mild plaque psoriasis. However, since it is anautoimmune disorder, chronic plaque psoriasis may need more treatment than just steroids.
In some cases, the body’s autoimmune response will need to be quieted to prevent more harm. Providers can prescribe drugs that target the immune response either as a whole (systemic) or in part (localized).
Topical Corticosteroids
Topical corticosteroids can be the onlytreatmentneeded for people with mild chronic plaque psoriasis. The drugs can also be used with other treatments in people with moderate to severe cases.
Before prescribing a topical steroid, your dermatologist will consider the location and severity of your chronic psoriasisplaques. For plaques on the face or genitals, a lower-strength preparation might be prescribed, while a stronger (medium- to high-potency) steroid can be used on other parts of the body.
Overusing topical corticosteroids or using them for a long time can lead to skin atrophy (thinning), which may not be reversible.
The Best Topical Steroid Creams for Psoriasis
Non-Biologic Drugs
Chronic plaque psoriasis is commonly treated with three non-biologic drugs (made or synthesized in the lab):
Taking Otezla For Psoriasis
Biologic Drugs
Biologic drugs, made from human or animal proteins, have been approved to treat moderate to severe chronic plaque psoriasis.
Biologics target a specific part (component) of the immune response rather than the immune system as a whole.
Drugs that target one of two components of the immune response include:
Common side effects of biologics include injection site pain, respiratory infections, and flu-like symptoms. In rare cases, certain cancers and neurological disorders (e.g., seizures and multiple sclerosis) may develop.
Plaque Psoriasis Doctor Discussion GuideGet our printable guide for your next doctor’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.Download PDFEmail AddressSign UpThank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up.There was an error. Please try again.
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Supportive Medications
Other prescription drugs can support the primary treatment of chronic plaque psoriasis. These include:
In May 2022, the FDA approvedVtama (tapinarof) cream, 1%—a new type of topical medication—for the treatment of mild, moderate, and severe chronic plaque psoriasis in adults. Vtama is the first and only FDA-approved non-steroidal topical medication in its class.
Studies have shown this treatment to be effective and safe for use on multiple body sites—including sensitive skin areas.
Common side effects include itching, folliculitis, skin rash, and headache.
A New Non-Steroidal Psoriasis Cream Is Making Remission Possible
Off-Label Treatments
Drugs commonly used as off-label treatments for chronic plaque psoriasis include:
What to Know Before Taking Cimzia
Over-the-Counter Treatments for Chronic Plaque Psoriasis
Over-the-counter (OTC) products are also available to treat chronic plaque psoriasis. However, some can be harsh on your skin or interact with prescribed treatments, so it is important to talk to your dermatologist before you use them.
Some common OTC treatments for chronic plaque psoriasis include:
The Best OTC Psoriasis Treatments
Here are a few examples of how phototherapy is used for chronic plaque psoriasis:
What Is Phototherapy for Psoriasis?
Home Remedies
The goal of home therapies for chronic plaque psoriasis is to get relief from itchiness, burning, and discomfort, as well as to gently remove accumulated cells without harming the skin.
Some home remedies you may want to try include:
A holistic psoriasis treatment approach includes regular exercise, stress reduction, a low-fat diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and avoiding alcohol and cigarettes.
Psoriasis Diet: What to Eat
Skin Care
Other key skin care tips for managing chronic plaque psoriasis include:
How Psoriasis Looks on Different Skin Tones
Summary
Chronic plaque psoriasis can be managed with a variety of prescription and OTC treatments. Although the condition is not curable, medications, home remedies, light therapy, and skincare can all help you manage flare-ups. You may need to use more than one treatment to effectively manage your psoriasis over the long-term. Check with your dermatologist on what treatment is best for your particular condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Chronic plaque psoriasis is treated with a combination of topical corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and other prescription medications and over-the-counter products.Self-care, including skin care, is also an important part of managing plaque psoriasis.
In addition to taking your medications, lifestyle habits like eating a nutritious diet, getting regular exercise, avoiding alcohol and cigarettes, and reducing stress can help strengthen your immune system and prevent flares of chronic plaque psoriasis.Taking care of your skin is also an important part of self-care when you have psoriasis. Avoid harsh soaps, exfoliating scrubs and loofahs, alcohol-based cleansers, and hot water, and keep your skin moisturized and protected against irritations, injury, and insect bites.
In addition to taking your medications, lifestyle habits like eating a nutritious diet, getting regular exercise, avoiding alcohol and cigarettes, and reducing stress can help strengthen your immune system and prevent flares of chronic plaque psoriasis.
Taking care of your skin is also an important part of self-care when you have psoriasis. Avoid harsh soaps, exfoliating scrubs and loofahs, alcohol-based cleansers, and hot water, and keep your skin moisturized and protected against irritations, injury, and insect bites.
Tips for Living With Chronic Plaque Psoriasis
20 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
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