There is no "best" tablet for psoriasis that works for everyone, as the most effective treatment depends on the type and severity of psoriasis, as well as individual patient factors. The medications listed below are commonly used oral treatments; however, it is crucial to consult with a doctor to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
It's important to note that while the question refers to a "tablet," the referenced document pertains to injectable medications commonly used for psoriasis. However, to provide a complete answer, I will address both injectable medications and common oral treatments (tablets) for psoriasis.
Injectable Medications for Psoriasis (Referenced Document)
These medications are often prescribed for moderate to severe plaque psoriasis:
| Generic name | Brand name | Indications |
|---|---|---|
| etanercept | Enbrel | chronic plaque psoriasis |
| adalimumab | Humira | chronic plaque psoriasis |
| infliximab | Remicade | plaque psoriasis |
| ustekinumab | Stelara | moderate to severe plaque psoriasis |
- Etanercept (Enbrel): A biologic drug that blocks the activity of TNF-alpha, a substance in the body that can cause inflammation.
- Adalimumab (Humira): Another TNF-alpha inhibitor, similar to etanercept.
- Infliximab (Remicade): Also a TNF-alpha inhibitor, administered intravenously.
- Ustekinumab (Stelara): Works by blocking interleukins IL-12 and IL-23, proteins involved in inflammation.
Oral Medications (Tablets) for Psoriasis
Several oral medications are available to treat psoriasis. These are prescribed based on the severity of the condition and the patient's overall health.
- Apremilast (Otezla): An oral medication that works by inhibiting phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4), an enzyme that controls inflammation within cells. It's often prescribed for moderate to severe psoriasis.
- Cyclosporine: An immunosuppressant that can be effective for severe psoriasis, but it requires close monitoring due to potential side effects.
- Acitretin (Soriatane): A retinoid (vitamin A derivative) that can help slow the growth of skin cells. It's often used for severe psoriasis, but it can cause birth defects, so it is not suitable for women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
- Methotrexate: An immunosuppressant that can help reduce inflammation and slow skin cell growth. It's a common treatment for moderate to severe psoriasis, but it also requires careful monitoring due to potential side effects.
Key Considerations:
- Severity of Psoriasis: Mild psoriasis might be managed with topical treatments, while moderate to severe cases often require oral or injectable medications.
- Individual Health: Pre-existing health conditions and other medications can influence treatment choices.
- Potential Side Effects: All medications have potential side effects, and the doctor will consider these when prescribing a treatment.
- Pregnancy: Some psoriasis medications are not safe during pregnancy.
In conclusion, the "best" tablet or injectable medication for psoriasis is highly individualized and depends on numerous factors. A dermatologist will assess your condition and medical history to recommend the most appropriate treatment plan. The drugs listed above are some common choices, but their suitability varies from person to person.
