How medicines fit in

There are three main categories of treatment for psoriasis:

Topical
Topical treatments are applied directly onto your patches of psoriasis. There are several different types of topical treatments including emollients (moisturisers), topical steroids and vitamin D derivatives.

Read more about Topical Treatments (PDF)

Phototherapy
Phototherapy uses UVA or UVB light to treat your psoriasis.

Read more about Phototherapy (PDF)

Systemics (excluding biologics)
Unlike topicals, systemic medications work inside your body to treat psoriasis.   Examples of systemics that may be prescribed by your healthcare team for more severe or difficult to treat psoriasis are methotrexate, ciclosporin and retinoids (vitamin A derivatives).

Read more about Systemic treatments (PDF)

Biologics
Biologics are also a type of systemic medication in that they work from within, but are prescribed for moderate to severe psoriasis when the other systemic medications described above, have not controlled your psoriasis adequately, or when these systemics cannot be used.

Read more about Biologics (PDF)

How your psoriasis is treated depends on the type and its severity. It is important to consult your healthcare team to find the appropriate treatment regimen that works best for you. They will also provide information on the benefits and side effects associated with the different treatment options.

If you have been diagnosed with Psoriatic arthritis, then you may be prescribed a wider choice of medications to help you with your inflammation and pain,

Read more about the treatments for psoriatic arthritis (PDF)

Whatever medicines you take, it's always a good idea to read the information leaflet inside the packet to make sure you understand what you are taking and any side effects that might affect you.