How effective is methotrexate for psoriasis?
methotrexate for psoriasis can be effective. Psoriasis is found in various forms and degrees of severity and decisions on whether to treat and how to handle it will be made by the attending physician. The doctor takes into account the type of psoriasis, symptoms and severity. Methhotrexate is one of a series of treatments used to treat this weakening condition of the skin.
The exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, although it seems genetically inherited. This causes red spots on the skin that dry and scale. Some people have large areas of psoriasis, while others can only develop small spots. Arthritis can also be associated with psoriasis in a state called psoriatic arthritis. They may have an unknown cause or may be caused by triggers such as some medicines, infections such as Strep's throat or ingestion of large amounts of alcohol. The medicinal physician may prescribe methotrexate for psoriasis during severe flare. They may include both creams and ointments and in some cases the therapy of light or puva. If psoria wouldShe did not improve with these measures, systemic therapy may be prescribed. Again, there are a number of different drug classes that have successfully treated psoriasis symptoms. It is believed that methotrexate works by suppressing skin cells and acting as anti -inflammatory.
When using methotrexate for psoriasis, it is usually given as a dose per week or three times a week and generally as short as possible. This should minimize the risk of side effects. Methotrexate can cause diarrhea, loss of appetite and fatigue. In prolonged use, this may cause liver damage and blood cells. The prescribed doses and duration of therapy should never be exceeded. In many cases, the systemic treatment will be administered for a short time to check the flare, allowing you to return to local therapy after remission.
If the prescription decides to use methotrexate for psoriasis, it is important that the patient is informationIt has about any other drugs they take, including complementary, homeopathic and over -the -counter treatment, as they can interact with methotrexate. Pregnancy, pregnancy and lactation should also be discussed. Alcohol intake should be avoided when using methotrexate.