Combining traditional agents and biologics for the treatment of psoriasis

Abstract

Psoriasis patients deserve long-term control of their disease with optimal safety. Traditional agents (methotrexate, cyclosporine, retinoids, and photochemotherapy [PUVS]), although providing excellent short-term control, may produce acute or chronic toxicities, thus limiting their usage. Dermatologists are well versed in combination and rotational therapies for psoriasis, using these and other agents. With the advent of biologic therapies (three currently approved, and others pending), the potential for safer long-term psoriasis control is being realized. A review of the literature, plus our personal experience in using combinations of traditional agents and biologics, is presented.