Drug delivery and formulations for the topical treatment of psoriasis

Expert Opin Drug Deliv. 2008 Feb;5(2):235-49. doi: 10.1517/17425247.5.2.235.

Abstract

Background: Psoriasis is one of the most common human skin diseases. It is characterised by excessive growth and aberrant differentiation of corneocytes, but is fully reversible with appropriate therapy.

Objective: There are many drug therapies for psoriasis via the topical delivery route. This review describes the topically applied drugs used to treat psoriasis.

Methods: Formulations to carry or encapsulate these drugs are introduced in this review. Enhancing approaches such as liposome inclusion, iontophoresis and laser are also discussed.

Conclusion: This review summarises developments in the design of formulations in the area of topical drug delivery for treating psoriasis.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Cutaneous
  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones* / administration & dosage
  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones* / therapeutic use
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Dermatologic Agents* / administration & dosage
  • Dermatologic Agents* / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppressive Agents* / administration & dosage
  • Immunosuppressive Agents* / therapeutic use
  • Iontophoresis
  • Laser Therapy
  • Liposomes
  • Phototherapy
  • Psoriasis / drug therapy*

Substances

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones
  • Dermatologic Agents
  • Immunosuppressive Agents
  • Liposomes