How do I compare psoriasis treatment options?

Thirteen options and the same twelve questions asked of each one, with no score, no ranking, and nothing that picks for you.

Put two or three options side by side

JavaScript is off. The full comparison remains below; focusing on two or three options is unavailable, but no treatment information is missing.

When head-to-head evidence is missing, the matrix says so. "Not established" does not mean zero benefit or zero risk. Open a named guide for the full sources, population details, and limits. Four labels mark what is missing, and each one means something different. "Not applicable" means the question does not fit that option. "Not reported in the reviewed source" means the source left it out. "Not established by the reviewed evidence" means the evidence cannot support an answer. "Not yet reviewed" means I have not finished that check yet.

Psoriasis choices, compared without ranking or recommendation
Same question for every option	Topical steroids	Vitamin D analogues	Tazarotene	Calcineurin inhibitors (Protopic, Elidel)	Roflumilast (Zoryve)	Tapinarof (VTAMA)	Narrowband UVB phototherapy	Methotrexate	Cyclosporine	Acitretin	Apremilast (Otezla)	Deucravacitinib (Sotyktu)	Biologics, by class (TNF, IL-17, IL-23, IL-12/23)
What is its status, and when was that checked?	FDA-approved drug class with many generic products; used across mild to thick plaques. Evidence Evidence	FDA-approved topical class (calcipotriene, calcitriol); a fixed-combination steroid product is also approved. Evidence Evidence	FDA-approved topical retinoid, available as cream, gel, and foam at more than one strength. Evidence Evidence	FDA approved for eczema, not psoriasis; used on psoriasis off-label, a real and documented practice. Evidence Evidence	FDA-approved specifically for psoriasis, including intertriginous (skin-fold) areas, for ages 2 and up. Evidence Evidence	FDA-approved for plaque psoriasis in adults, with no stated site or duration restriction. Evidence Evidence	Medically supervised light therapy given in a booth or panel, centered near 311 nanometres. Evidence Evidence	Decades-old oral or injected medicine, established as a systemic option in the 2020 AAD-NPF guideline. Evidence Evidence	Established systemic option (2020 AAD-NPF guideline); originally developed to prevent transplant rejection. Evidence Evidence	Established systemic option (2020 AAD-NPF guideline); an oral retinoid related to vitamin A. Evidence Evidence	Established systemic option (2020 AAD-NPF guideline); an oral PDE4 inhibitor needing no routine blood tests. Evidence Evidence	FDA approved for adults with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis and separately for active psoriatic arthritis. Evidence Evidence	FDA-approved lab-made proteins grouped by target: TNF-alpha, IL-12/23, IL-23, and IL-17; several are separately approved for psoriatic arthritis. Evidence Evidence
What goal and mechanism does it address?	Local anti-inflammatory effect: calms redness, swelling, scaling, and itch and slows skin-cell turnover where applied. Evidence Evidence	Slows the overproduction of skin cells that builds plaques and removes scale, without a steroid’s anti-inflammatory action. Evidence Evidence	A vitamin-A-derived retinoid that slows fast-growing skin cells, reducing thickness, scale, redness, and swelling. Evidence Evidence	Blocks calcineurin, a step immune cells need to switch on the inflammatory signaling behind a plaque, without thinning the skin. Evidence	A steroid-free PDE4 inhibitor; the label is honest that the exact way this clears plaques is not fully mapped. Evidence Evidence	A steroid-free aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) agonist; the label states the exact mechanism in psoriasis is unknown. Evidence Evidence	Slows overactive skin-cell growth, suppresses overactive immune signaling, and reduces inflammation and itch in the skin. Evidence Evidence	At psoriasis doses, slows rapid skin-cell growth and calms an overactive immune system; taken once a week, never daily. Evidence Evidence	An immunosuppressant pill that slows growth of certain overactive immune cells rather than the skin cells themselves. Evidence Evidence	Slows skin-cell growth and reduces redness and swelling without suppressing the immune system, so it is an option for some people who cannot take an immunosuppressant. Evidence Evidence	Raises a molecule called cAMP inside immune cells to lower several inflammatory signals; the label states the exact mechanism is not well defined. Evidence Evidence	A TYK2 inhibitor that binds a regulatory part of the enzyme (allosteric inhibition) rather than its active site, lowering several inflammatory pathways; the label does not explain why it works better for some people. Evidence Evidence	Each class blocks one specific part of the immune system involved in psoriasis, rather than suppressing immune function broadly the way an older pill does. Evidence Evidence
What kind of evidence supports it, and can it be compared directly?	Patient-education guidance and current FDA labels for individual products, not one trial for the whole class. Evidence Evidence	Patient-education guidance from AAD and NPF plus current FDA labels for individual products. Evidence Evidence	Patient-education guidance from AAD and NPF plus the current FDA label. Evidence Evidence	AAD patient education plus the tacrolimus and pimecrolimus FDA labels, both written for eczema rather than psoriasis. Evidence	Two identical pivotal trials (DERMIS-1 and DERMIS-2) plus an independent CADTH review of the same data. Evidence Evidence	Two identical pivotal trials (PSOARING 1 and PSOARING 2). Evidence Evidence	A joint AAD-NPF phototherapy guideline (2019), a BAD/British Photodermatology Group guideline, and a systematic review pooling nine studies. Evidence Evidence	AAD and NPF patient education, the current FDA label, and a 52-week trial of the injected form. Evidence Evidence	AAD and NPF patient education plus the current Neoral FDA label. Evidence Evidence	AAD and NPF patient education plus the current Soriatane FDA label. Evidence Evidence	The current Otezla FDA label plus AAD patient education. Evidence Evidence	The current Sotyktu FDA label, including two phase 3 trials (POETYK PSO-1 and PSO-2) with an apremilast comparator arm. Evidence Evidence	AAD and NPF patient-education pages, a MedlinePlus summary of the adalimumab label, and independent clinical-literature summaries of the joint AAD-NPF biologics guideline. Evidence Evidence
Who and which body sites were studied?	No single class-wide study population; potency is matched to body site (thin skin versus thick plaques) rather than to a studied group. Evidence Evidence	No single class-wide study population reported; calcipotriene is commonly used on the scalp and nails, calcitriol cannot be used on the face, lips, or eyes. Evidence Evidence	No single trial population reported for the class; can be used on skin or on nail psoriasis. Evidence Evidence	No psoriasis-specific trial population reported; used on the face and other delicate areas, including inverse psoriasis in skin folds. Evidence	Ages 12 and older in the pivotal trials; approved anywhere on the body including skin folds. Evidence Evidence	Adults in the pivotal trials; can be applied anywhere on the body including the face, but not studied in children for psoriasis. Evidence Evidence	The pooled systematic review covered roughly 1,334 participants with Fitzpatrick skin types III through V; it treats psoriasis in the skin only, not joints. Evidence Evidence	The cited trial studied 120 adults with moderate-to-severe psoriasis (91 on methotrexate); can also treat psoriatic arthritis and nail psoriasis, unlike any topical or phototherapy option here. Evidence Evidence	Typically considered for extensive or disabling psoriasis needing faster control; AAD reports 80% to 90% of people treated for 12 to 16 weeks had rapid improvement. Evidence Evidence	Treats plaque, guttate, pustular (including hands and feet), erythrodermic, and severe generalized psoriasis; no single trial population is reported for the class. Evidence Evidence	Approved for adults at any severity level who are candidates for phototherapy or systemic therapy, and for children six and older meeting weight and severity criteria. Evidence Evidence	Adults in the pivotal trials; a tuberculosis check and screening for active or serious infection, including hepatitis B or C, is recommended before starting. Evidence Evidence	Generally used for moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis not controlled by topical treatment, phototherapy, or oral systemic medicines; standard practice includes a tuberculosis test and often a hepatitis B test before starting. Evidence Evidence
What possible benefit was reported?	Most people see results quickly with short-term twice-daily use; a lack of change after three to six weeks is a signal to check back rather than continue unchanged. Evidence Evidence	Most people apply it twice a day and notice improvement within about two weeks. Evidence Evidence	A few people see plaques clear completely; most see roughly a 50% reduction, with remission lasting up to three months for those who clear. Evidence Evidence	Most people apply it twice a day; no improvement after six weeks is a signal to check back, the same window as topical steroids. Evidence	42.4% and 37.5% of trial participants reached clear or almost-clear skin at 8 weeks, versus 6.1% and 6.9% on vehicle cream. Evidence Evidence	36% and 40% of participants reached clear or almost clear at 12 weeks versus 6% on vehicle in both trials; clearing lasted a median of 114 days among those who fully cleared and stopped. Evidence Evidence	70.5% of participants across the pooled review reached PASI75 (at least 75% clearer); a more frequent schedule clears skin faster (58 versus 88 mean days) than a less frequent one many patients prefer. Evidence Evidence Evidence	Most people notice less psoriasis within four to six weeks; 41% of trial participants on the injected form reached PASI75 by week 16, versus 10% on placebo. Evidence Evidence Evidence	Visible improvement can start as early as two weeks on stronger doses, with three to four months typically needed for the fullest response. Evidence Evidence	Improvement can begin within a few weeks, with full effect for plaque psoriasis taking up to six months. Evidence Evidence	About 20% of trial participants were clear or almost clear by week 16, and about a third saw 75% or greater improvement. Evidence Evidence	58% and 53% of participants reached PASI75 by week 16, versus 13% and 9% on placebo and 35% and 40% on the apremilast comparator; by week 24, deucravacitinib rose to 69% and 58% versus 38% on apremilast in both trials. Evidence Evidence	Reported response rates differ by class and by which PASI threshold is measured. Roughly 49% to 80% reached PASI75 for TNF drugs, and 66% to 75% did for the IL-12/23 drug. IL-17 drugs reached the higher PASI90 bar in 77% to 91% of cases, and IL-23 drugs in 70% to 75%, each in separate trials. Evidence Evidence
What material harms or limits matter?	Burning, stinging, and irritation are common; stronger products or longer use can thin skin, bruise it, cause stretch marks, or change color, and widespread or occluded use raises systemic-absorption risk. Stopping abruptly can cause a flare. Evidence Evidence Evidence	Local irritation, burning, itching, and dryness are common and usually ease with continued use. The more serious but low-risk concern is hypercalcemia, too much calcium in the blood. Evidence Evidence Evidence	Local irritation and sun sensitivity are common. It must not be used during pregnancy; anyone who could become pregnant needs a negative pregnancy test and effective birth control while using it. Evidence Evidence Evidence	Burning and itching where applied are common early on. Both drugs carry an FDA boxed warning against continuous long-term use, with rare lymphoma or skin-cancer reports, though AAD says dermatologists have not seen that increased risk in everyday practice. Evidence Evidence Evidence	Diarrhea, headache, trouble sleeping, nausea, and application-site pain were the most common reported reactions; not approved for moderate-to-severe liver problems. Evidence Evidence	Folliculitis (inflamed hair follicles) was the most common effect, in 20% versus 1% on vehicle; no boxed warning or contraindication on the label. Evidence Evidence	Sunburn-like redness and tenderness are the most common reaction; dark spots and itching can occur, and rare blisters or burns are possible. Long-term use raises skin-aging and skin-cancer risk. Evidence Evidence	An FDA boxed warning covers fetal death risk, severe allergic reaction risk, serious organ-toxicity risk, and death from mistaken daily dosing. Nausea, mouth sores, and fatigue are more common effects. Evidence Evidence	Two FDA boxed warnings cover increased infection and cancer risk, and, specific to psoriasis, higher skin-cancer risk in people previously treated with PUVA, plus high blood pressure and kidney damage. Evidence Evidence Evidence	A boxed warning covers severe birth defects if taken during pregnancy; anyone who could become pregnant must avoid alcohol during treatment and for two months after, and avoid pregnancy for three years after stopping. Very common effects include chapped lips, dry eyes and mouth, and joint pain. Evidence Evidence Evidence	Can increase risk of depression and suicidal thoughts (the label calls for watching for mood changes) and can cause weight loss, seen in 10% to 12% of adults. Diarrhea and nausea (17% each) were the most common effects. Evidence Evidence	No boxed warning, but increased infection risk, herpes zoster (shingles) reports, a small number of lymphoma cases (0.3 per 100 patient-years), and a commonly raised muscle enzyme (CPK) are documented. Evidence Evidence	Every biologic here raises infection risk. TNF-class drugs carry an FDA boxed warning covering serious infection and cancer/lymphoma risk; brodalumab and bimekizumab (IL-17 class) carry a boxed warning or precaution for suicidal ideation and behavior. Evidence Evidence Evidence
What follow-up or monitoring does it require?	Watch for thinning skin or persistent burning, and taper rather than stop suddenly if your dermatologist agrees a change is needed. Evidence Evidence	Watch for persistent irritation or anything that feels like more than a local reaction. Evidence Evidence	Redness before clearing is expected and usually not painful; call about severe irritation or anything beyond that. Evidence Evidence	Minimize sun exposure and avoid tanning beds, sunlamps, and UV therapy while using either medicine. Evidence	Call about diarrhea or any symptom that does not ease with continued use. Evidence Evidence	Call about any reaction that does not ease with continued use. Evidence Evidence	Dermatologists check response after the first several treatments and calibrate dose to skin type, raising it gradually. Evidence Evidence	Requires regular blood testing to catch liver, blood-count, and other problems early; avoid alcohol. Evidence Evidence	Requires blood-pressure and kidney-function testing every two weeks for the first three months, then monthly once stable. Evidence Evidence	Requires liver-function and cholesterol blood tests before starting and every one to two weeks until stable; anyone who could become pregnant needs a pregnancy test every three months. Evidence Evidence	Requires regular weight checks and attention to mood changes; no routine blood tests required otherwise. Evidence Evidence	CPK and triglycerides are checked periodically; liver enzymes only if you have known or suspected liver disease, unlike the routine bloodwork methotrexate or cyclosporine require for everyone. Evidence Evidence	Report fever, cough, or other infection signs promptly; those on brodalumab or bimekizumab are asked to track mood and report new or worsening depression right away. Evidence Evidence
What practical burden comes with it?	Once- or twice-daily application, with strength matched to the exact body site being treated. Evidence Evidence	Once- or twice-daily application, with some products restricted from certain areas (face, lips, eyes). Evidence Evidence	Once-daily application, usually in the evening, avoiding eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes. Evidence Evidence	Twice-daily application on delicate or fold areas where a strong steroid would carry more risk. Evidence	Once-daily application, rubbed in completely; no stated site or duration limit. Evidence Evidence	Once-daily application with no stated site restriction. Evidence Evidence	Regular sessions across several weeks, in an office or with a supervised home device. Evidence Evidence	Once-weekly dosing by pill, liquid, or injection, plus a recurring blood-draw schedule. Evidence Evidence	Twice-daily dosing, frequent monitoring visits, and a grapefruit-free diet since grapefruit can raise drug levels. Evidence Evidence	Once-daily dosing with food, plus a multi-year contraception and blood-donation restriction after stopping. Evidence Evidence	A five-day dose increase (titration) to a twice-daily pill, or a once-daily extended-release tablet. Evidence Evidence	One fixed-dose tablet once a day, with no titration step, that should not be crushed, cut, or chewed. Evidence Evidence	Mostly self-injected subcutaneously, from twice a week to once every three months depending on the drug; infliximab requires an IV infusion at an office or infusion center. Evidence Evidence
What access or cost uncertainty remains?	Older generics on most formularies; a discounted cash-price snapshot found many tubes running roughly $10 to $40. Evidence Evidence	A generic calcipotriene cream is currently marketed; exact price was not captured this session because pharmacy-price sites returned access-blocked responses. Evidence	No generic version of the branded cream is confirmed on the current label; exact price was not captured this session. Evidence	A pimecrolimus generic and a separate generic tacrolimus ointment are both currently marketed; exact price was not captured this session. Evidence Evidence	A manufacturer savings card can bring cost to as little as $0 per fill for commercially insured patients (excludes government plans); a separate assistance program exists for uninsured patients who qualify. No generic exists yet. Evidence Evidence	A manufacturer savings card can bring cost to as little as $0 per fill, capped at $35, for commercially insured patients; a separate income-based assistance program exists. No generic exists yet. Evidence Evidence	A 2026 modeling study found a mean annual out-of-pocket cost of $5,004 for office-based phototherapy versus $1,450 for a home unit; real cost depends on your own plan and session count. Evidence	A live pharmacy snapshot found an average cash price of about $97 for 24 tablets, dropping to about $13 with a common discount coupon. Evidence	A live pharmacy snapshot found an average cash price of about $146 for 30 capsules of one strength, dropping to about $41 with a common discount coupon. Evidence	A live pharmacy snapshot found an average cash price of about $902 for 30 capsules of one strength, dropping to about $89 with a common discount coupon. Evidence	No generic exists yet (expected delayed to 2028-2029); a manufacturer copay program can bring cost to $0 a month for commercially insured patients, and a separate foundation exists for uninsured or underinsured patients. Evidence Evidence	No generic exists; a manufacturer copay program can bring a 30-day supply to as little as $0 for commercially insured patients (excludes government plans), with a separate foundation for uninsured patients. Evidence Evidence	A modeling study found a mean yearly out-of-pocket cost of about $2,000 for biologics. Each drug has its own list price, and often its own copay card or assistance program. NPF also offers a free Patient Navigator service. Evidence Evidence
What is known about combinations?	Often paired with a vitamin D analogue in a fixed-combination product, which can work better than either alone and let the steroid be used more briefly. Evidence Evidence	Steroid-sparing: pairing with a strong corticosteroid, including in a single fixed-combination product, tends to work better than either alone and can reduce steroid-related side effects. Evidence Evidence	Often paired with a topical steroid, which cuts irritation and can extend remission. Evidence Evidence	Can be used alone or alongside a topical steroid on the same delicate areas. Evidence	The label does not name a documented combination partner the way apremilast’s does. Evidence Evidence	The label does not name a documented combination partner. Evidence Evidence	Can be combined with a topical medicine to work faster; it does not treat joint inflammation and is not a treatment for psoriatic arthritis. Evidence Evidence Evidence	Can treat both skin and joint disease, either alone or alongside another treatment your dermatologist selects. Evidence Evidence	The current label states it should not be given together with phototherapy, methotrexate, other immune-suppressing medicines, coal tar, or radiation therapy. Evidence Evidence	Must not be combined with methotrexate or tetracycline antibiotics; combining with phototherapy is common but requires a reduced light dose. Evidence Evidence	Shown safe and effective when combined with methotrexate, phototherapy, or topical treatments; the label advises against combining with strong CYP3A4-inducing medicines such as rifampin. Evidence Evidence	The label advises against combining with other potent immunosuppressants or live vaccines; it does not state whether combining with phototherapy has been studied. Evidence Evidence	These sources do not describe each of the twelve named drugs’ own individual combination rules; class-wide screening and vaccine-timing precautions apply before starting any of them. Evidence Evidence
What is reversible, permanent, or still unknown?	How long a specific course should run and what counts as "not working" for particular plaques is not fixed by these sources. Evidence Evidence	Whether a combination product fits a given reader’s plaques, and exactly where to apply or avoid it, is not answered by these sources alone. Evidence Evidence	Exactly how much redness counts as expected versus a reason to call is a judgment call your dermatologist makes for your case. Evidence Evidence	Because this use is off-label, no psoriasis-specific efficacy review backs a dose or duration for this condition. Evidence	These are trial averages for the studied population, not a prediction for one reader, and the trials do not break results down by body area. Evidence Evidence	These are trial averages for the adult study population, not a prediction for one reader, and the 114-day figure applies only to those who fully cleared. Evidence Evidence	The 70.5% figure comes from a specific skin-tone population, so it may not generalize to every skin tone, and neither guideline promises complete clearing for everyone. Evidence Evidence	The label’s detailed side-effect rate table comes from rheumatoid-arthritis trials, not a psoriasis-specific study. Evidence Evidence	Patient-education sources describe a roughly one-year outer limit for psoriasis use and report most people relapse within about 14 weeks after stopping; the label itself does not state that duration limit as explicitly. Evidence Evidence	No source states a fixed maximum treatment duration the way cyclosporine’s one-year figure is described; ongoing dosing is set by individual response. Evidence Evidence	These are group trial averages, not a prediction for one reader, and no source states an exact week an individual would notice a difference. Evidence Evidence	These are results from two specific trials, not a prediction for one reader, and neither trial states an exact week an individual would notice a difference. Evidence Evidence	The response ranges above come from separate trials with different designs and populations, not one head-to-head comparison, and mixing a PASI75 figure against a PASI90 figure is not an apples-to-apples comparison. Evidence Evidence
What would I ask before deciding?	Which exact product and strength are you prescribing for me? If I need to stop, should I taper instead of stopping abruptly? Evidence Evidence	Which exact product are you prescribing for me, calcipotriene or calcitriol? Would a combination product make sense for me? Evidence Evidence	Could I become pregnant while using this, and what does that mean for treatment? Would combining this with a steroid make sense for me? Evidence Evidence	Why are you recommending an eczema medicine for my psoriasis? How worried should I be about the boxed warning for what you are prescribing me? Evidence	Is this a good fit given where my psoriasis is and what I have already tried? Which of these programs, if any, applies to me? Evidence Evidence	Is this a good fit given where my psoriasis is and what I have already tried? Which of these programs, if any, applies to me? Evidence Evidence	Would I do this in your office, or could a supervised home device be an option for me? How often will I need to come in, and how does that change my timeline? Evidence Evidence	How is a psoriasis dose different from a cancer dose, and why does that matter for me? How often will I need blood work, and what will you be checking? Evidence Evidence	If I have had phototherapy before, does that change whether cyclosporine is safe for me? How long do you expect I would stay on cyclosporine, and what happens after that? Evidence Evidence	Since I could still get pregnant, or plan to, how does that change whether acitretin is right for me? Would you combine acitretin with phototherapy or another treatment I am already using? Evidence Evidence	What mood or weight changes should make me call you right away? Would apremilast make sense alongside what I am already using? Evidence Evidence	Do I need a tuberculosis or hepatitis test before starting? How does this compare with apremilast for someone with my history? Evidence Evidence	Which class fits my psoriasis pattern, joint symptoms, and other health conditions? Does my insurance cover this specific drug, and is there a copay card or assistance program for it? Evidence Evidence

Options and detailed guides

Open a guide for its full evidence boundary. The matrix repeats source links in each cell so a regulatory fact is not mistaken for an outcome or a practical inference.

Written and sourced by Ajith Dhati, a patient. Last updated September 19, 2026. How this site is written and checked.

I have several treatment options. Where do I start?

Start with the goal that matters most to you right now: calmer skin, fewer flares, joint relief, or fewer trips to a clinic. Then put two or three realistic options side by side and ask the same twelve questions of each one. Choices made in the picker below stay in this browser tab only; they are not written to the URL, storage, analytics, or a network request. Evidence Evidence

Why this matters

Sources cited, not yet graded

I ask the same twelve questions of every option, so one choice is not described only by its possible benefit while another is described mainly by its harms. People I have heard from ask most often whether to stay with a treatment that has stopped working.

Considerations

Depends on you

A side-by-side comparison still depends on evidence that applies to your case. It cannot weigh benefit, harm, burden, and cost the way you would for your own life.

Questions for your dermatologist

Which two or three options are actually realistic for me right now?
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What is the main goal we are treating for: skin, joints, or both?
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Evidence behind this page

Sources

Each evidence badge opens the source and its limits. The full list stays available here.

Clobetasol pharmacy-price comparison - live snapshot captured August 16, 2026 (opens in a new tab)
GoodRxPatient education · Patient education, tier 5Relevant relationship disclosed
Published
Aug 16, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 15, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
Why the independence label says this: GoodRx is a commercial pharmacy-price and coupon marketplace; displayed prices can vary by prescription, pharmacy, location, and time.
What this source supports
Supports only one input to the dated generic topical-corticosteroid cost band.
What it does not support
It does not establish another corticosteroid product’s price, coverage, coupon eligibility, or a personal price.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Betamethasone dipropionate pharmacy-price comparison - live snapshot captured August 16, 2026 (opens in a new tab)
GoodRxPatient education · Patient education, tier 5Relevant relationship disclosed
Published
Aug 16, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 15, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
Why the independence label says this: GoodRx is a commercial pharmacy-price and coupon marketplace; displayed prices can vary by prescription, pharmacy, location, and time.
What this source supports
Supports only one input to the dated generic topical-corticosteroid cost band.
What it does not support
It does not establish another corticosteroid product’s price, coverage, coupon eligibility, or a personal price.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Clobetasol propionate ointment 0.05%: US prescribing information (opens in a new tab)
DailyMed, U.S. National Library of MedicineRegulatory · Regulatory / guideline, tier 1Relevant relationship disclosed
Published
Oct 22, 2025
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
Why the independence label says this: The National Library of Medicine hosts DailyMed. The product company submits the label to FDA, so it is authoritative for product labeling but not independent vitiligo evidence.
What this source supports
Supports the 0.05% ointment identity and product-specific potency, local-reaction, skin-atrophy, systemic-absorption, body-area and duration warnings.
What it does not support
It does not approve clobetasol for vitiligo, establish vitiligo benefit, or create a regimen for another product. Its Dosage and Administration section supports that treatment should be limited to 2 consecutive weeks and that amounts greater than 50 g per week should not be used, stated specifically to reduce the risk of HPA-axis suppression and local skin effects. It is one currently marketed product listed under its generic chemical name, not a brand-name label.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Betamethasone dipropionate cream 0.05%: US prescribing information (opens in a new tab)
DailyMed, U.S. National Library of MedicineRegulatory · Regulatory / guideline, tier 1Relevant relationship disclosed
Published
May 4, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 14, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
Why the independence label says this: The National Library of Medicine hosts DailyMed. The product company submits the label to FDA, so it is authoritative for product labeling but not independent vitiligo evidence.
What this source supports
Supports the 0.05% cream identity, current tube presentations and product-specific warnings.
What it does not support
It does not approve betamethasone dipropionate for vitiligo, establish vitiligo benefit, or show that similarly numbered steroid percentages have the same potency.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Protopic (tacrolimus) ointment: US prescribing information and Medication Guide (opens in a new tab)
DailyMed, U.S. National Library of MedicineRegulatory · Regulatory / guideline, tier 1Relevant relationship disclosed
Published
Jan 28, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
Why the independence label says this: The National Library of Medicine hosts DailyMed. The product company submits the label to FDA, so it is authoritative for product labeling but not independent efficacy evidence.
What this source supports
It establishes the US atopic-dermatitis indication, boxed warning, local effects, long-term-use precaution, and ultraviolet instructions for this product. Its mechanism-of-action section supports that tacrolimus binds FKBP-12 to block calcineurin phosphatase, preventing the T-cell activation that its boxed warning and local-effect data describe. Its local-adverse-reaction data supports burning in roughly 46-58% and itching in roughly 41-46% of studied patients, most often in the first few days and easing as treatment continues. Its Dosage and Administration section supports applying a thin layer twice daily and re-examining the patient if signs and symptoms do not improve within six weeks.
What it does not support
It does not approve tacrolimus for vitiligo or psoriasis, establish efficacy for either, or resolve off-label guideline discussion of supervised combinations. Its dosing and six-week re-examination window are stated for its approved atopic-dermatitis indication, not as a vitiligo-specific schedule.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Elidel (pimecrolimus) cream: US prescribing information and Medication Guide (opens in a new tab)
DailyMed, U.S. National Library of MedicineRegulatory · Regulatory / guideline, tier 1Relevant relationship disclosed
Published
Apr 30, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
Why the independence label says this: The National Library of Medicine hosts DailyMed. The product company submits the label to FDA, so it is authoritative for product labeling but not independent efficacy evidence.
What this source supports
Supports the US atopic-dermatitis indication, boxed warning, application-site effects, long-term-use precaution and instructions to avoid ultraviolet treatment and minimize natural or artificial sunlight. This label itself is a generic pimecrolimus cream filing (packager Oceanside Pharmaceuticals, a division of Bausch Health US, LLC), not the original brand Elidel label, so it also supports that a generic pimecrolimus cream is currently marketed. Its Dosage and Administration section supports applying a thin layer twice daily and re-examining the patient if signs and symptoms persist beyond six weeks; its boxed warning separately supports that continuous long-term use should be avoided. Its adult 1-year active-comparator adverse-reaction table (328 pimecrolimus-treated subjects) supports application-site burning in about 25.9%, headache in about 25.4%, nasopharyngitis in about 7.6%, and influenza in about 9.8% of that adult trial population.
What it does not support
It does not approve pimecrolimus for vitiligo or psoriasis, establish efficacy for either, or resolve off-label guideline discussion of supervised combinations. Its dosing and six-week re-examination window, and its adult adverse-reaction percentages, are stated for its approved atopic-dermatitis indication and trial population, not as a vitiligo-specific schedule or vitiligo-trial safety rate.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Calcipotriene cream 0.005%: US prescribing information (opens in a new tab)
DailyMed, U.S. National Library of MedicineRegulatory · Regulatory / guideline, tier 1Relevant relationship disclosed
Published
Oct 27, 2025
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
Why the independence label says this: The National Library of Medicine hosts DailyMed. The product company submits the label to FDA, so it is authoritative for product labeling but not independent vitiligo evidence.
What this source supports
Supports the psoriasis indication, 0.005% cream strength, current tube presentations, local irritation and dermatitis reports, the instruction not to use the cream on the face, contraindications for hypercalcemia or vitamin D toxicity, and calcium-related and ultraviolet precautions. Its Dosage and Administration section supports applying a thin layer twice daily, and that the label’s own safety and efficacy data cover an 8-week psoriasis treatment period. It supports that the label advises patients to avoid excessive natural or artificial sunlight and separately tells physicians they may wish to limit or avoid phototherapy in patients using this product. Its clinical-trial adverse-reaction data support skin irritation in about 10%-15% of patients (the most frequent reaction) and rash, itching, dermatitis, or worsening of psoriasis in about 1%-10%; post-approval reports separately support contact dermatitis, including allergic contact dermatitis.
What it does not support
It does not approve calcipotriene for vitiligo, establish vitiligo benefit, support a self-directed combination, or state a vitiligo-specific frequency, duration, or adverse-reaction rate. Its 8-week duration and adverse-reaction percentages are from psoriasis clinical trials, not a vitiligo population.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Psoriasis clinical guideline: systemic non-biological therapies (opens in a new tab)
American Academy of DermatologyGuideline · Regulatory / guideline, tier 1Relevant relationship disclosed
Published
Sep 1, 2020
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 14, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
Why the independence label says this: The guideline reports author relationships; it is not independent comparative proof for an individual choice.
What this source supports
Supports that methotrexate, apremilast, cyclosporine and acitretin are established systemic nonbiologic options considered in psoriasis care.
What it does not support
It does not select, rank or prescribe an option for an individual reader.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Psoriatic Arthritis: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Steps to Take (opens in a new tab)
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin DiseasesPatient education · Patient education, tier 5Independent source
Published
Aug 1, 2024
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 14, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
What this source supports
Supports bringing joint, tendon, swelling, stiffness and nail concerns to a clinician because diagnosis uses clinical assessment and may require further evaluation.
What it does not support
It is not an online screening result and cannot diagnose psoriatic arthritis from a checklist.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Psoriasis treatment: Corticosteroids you apply to the skin (opens in a new tab)
American Academy of DermatologyPatient education · Patient education, tier 5Independent source
Published
May 22, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
What this source supports
Supports that topical corticosteroids reduce redness, swelling, scaling and itch, and slow skin-cell growth. They come in strengths from very mild to extremely strong and are typically applied twice daily. Strong products on thin skin such as the face carry skin-thinning, spider-vein and stretch-mark risk. Most people see results with short twice-daily use, and no improvement after four to six weeks is a signal to return to the prescriber.
What it does not support
The page does not display its own separate revision date; the date recorded here matches the same AAD psoriasis treatment section’s dated overview page checked the same day. It does not name potency classes by number, give a percentage of people who improve, or set a maximum course length.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Topical Steroids (opens in a new tab)
National Psoriasis FoundationPatient education · Patient education, tier 5Independence not established
Published
May 14, 2025
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
Why the independence label says this: The organization provides patient education, but its editorial and funding independence for this page was not independently reviewed.
What this source supports
Supports that topical steroids range from super-potent to least potent, and that guidance advises not using one for longer than three weeks without checking with a clinician. Side effects include skin thinning, pigment change, easy bruising, stretch marks, redness and dilated blood vessels. Systemic absorption is a risk with widespread, prolonged or occluded use, and abruptly stopping a topical steroid can cause a psoriasis flare.
What it does not support
It does not name which specific product falls in which potency class, quantify how often a side effect occurs, or set a course length for any specific product or body site.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Psoriasis treatment: Synthetic vitamin D (opens in a new tab)
American Academy of DermatologyPatient education · Patient education, tier 5Independent source
Published
May 22, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
What this source supports
Supports that synthetic vitamin D (vitamin D analogues) slows rapidly growing skin cells, flattens thick psoriasis, and removes scale, and can treat nail and scalp psoriasis specifically. Most people apply it twice a day and notice improvement within about two weeks. It can be safely combined with a strong corticosteroid. The combination tends to work better than either alone and can reduce the side effects that come with using a strong steroid, which allows longer-term use. Common side effects are irritated skin, burning, itching, swelling, peeling, dryness, and redness, which typically resolve with continued use. A more serious but low-risk side effect is hypercalcemia, which can weaken bones, cause kidney stones, or affect the heart and brain.
What it does not support
The page does not display its own separate revision date; the date recorded here matches the same AAD psoriasis treatment section’s dated overview page checked the same day. It does not name a specific percentage of people who improve, quantify how often hypercalcemia occurs, or set a maximum course length.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Non-Steroidal Treatment for Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis (opens in a new tab)
National Psoriasis FoundationPatient education · Patient education, tier 5Independence not established
Published
Jun 30, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
Why the independence label says this: The organization provides patient education, but its editorial and funding independence for this page was not independently reviewed.
What this source supports
Supports that Dovonex (calcipotriene), a synthetic vitamin D3, slows skin cell growth, flattens plaques, and removes scale, and treats scalp and nail psoriasis. Supports that Vectical (calcitriol), the naturally occurring active form of vitamin D3, helps control excessive skin cell production and cannot be applied to the face, lips, or eyes. Supports that Taclonex combines calcipotriene with a steroid. Calcipotriene side effects listed: skin irritation, stinging, burning, dry skin, peeling, rash, dermatitis, and worsening of psoriasis. Calcitriol side effects: excessive calcium in urine is common. An extremely uncommon side effect is a change in calcium metabolism limits, which should stop treatment until calcium normalizes. Increased skin tumor risk from light sensitivity is also noted. Supports that Tazorac (tazarotene), a vitamin A derivative topical retinoid, slows skin cell growth. It is normal for psoriasis plaques to become very red, often intensely so but generally not painful, before clearing when using tazarotene. Tazarotene side effects include skin irritation, dry skin, and increased sun sensitivity; sunscreen and protective clothing are recommended during use.
What it does not support
It does not give an application frequency for calcitriol, name a percentage of people who improve, or publish pricing. It does not mention combining tazarotene with a steroid or include a pregnancy warning for tazarotene on this page.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Psoriasis treatment: A retinoid you apply to the skin (opens in a new tab)
American Academy of DermatologyPatient education · Patient education, tier 5Independent source
Published
May 22, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
What this source supports
Supports that tazarotene, a topical retinoid (synthetic vitamin A), slows rapidly growing skin cells, reduces thick psoriasis, decreases scale, and lessens redness and swelling. Often prescribed alongside a topical corticosteroid, which reduces skin irritation and produces longer-lasting results and a longer remission than tazarotene alone. Applied once daily as a thin layer. A few patients see complete clearing; most see about a 50% reduction, with remission lasting up to three months. Common side effects are irritation (redness, peeling, dryness, itching, burning) and increased sun sensitivity. Must not be used during pregnancy because it can cause birth defects. On nail psoriasis, can reduce nail thickness, treat crumbling nails, and help restore normal nail growth.
What it does not support
The page does not display its own separate revision date; the date recorded here matches the same AAD psoriasis treatment section’s dated overview page checked the same day. It does not name an exact percentage-of-patients figure beyond "most," quantify how often a side effect occurs, or state a fixed number of weeks before a check-in.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
TAZORAC (tazarotene) cream, 0.05% and 0.1%: US prescribing information (opens in a new tab)
DailyMed, U.S. National Library of MedicineRegulatory · Regulatory / guideline, tier 1Relevant relationship disclosed
Published
Nov 13, 2025
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
Why the independence label says this: The National Library of Medicine hosts DailyMed. The product company submits the label to FDA, so it is authoritative for product labeling but not independent psoriasis evidence.
What this source supports
Supports that TAZORAC cream 0.05% and 0.1% are indicated for topical treatment of plaque psoriasis (0.1% also for acne vulgaris). Supports the dosing: a thin layer once daily in the evening, starting at 0.05% with an increase to 0.1% only if tolerated and indicated. Supports the pregnancy contraindication - may cause fetal harm - and the requirement for a negative pregnancy test within two weeks before starting and effective contraception during use. Supports local skin reaction warnings (itching, burning, redness, peeling) and the instruction to avoid eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes and not to use on eczema-affected skin. Supports the photosensitivity warning to avoid sun, sunlamps, and weather extremes and wear sunscreen.
What it does not support
The label does not mention a generic version of TAZORAC cream, quantify how often a given side effect occurs, or state a retail price.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Psoriasis treatment: Tacrolimus ointment and pimecrolimus cream (opens in a new tab)
American Academy of DermatologyPatient education · Patient education, tier 5Independent source
Published
May 22, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
What this source supports
Supports that tacrolimus ointment and pimecrolimus cream are FDA approved to treat atopic dermatitis (eczema), not psoriasis, so dermatologists prescribe either for psoriasis off-label. Supports use on plaque psoriasis on the face and other delicate areas including the genitals, and on inverse psoriasis (armpits, under the breasts, groin, or face). Supports that most people apply either medicine twice a day, and that no improvement after six weeks is a signal to check back with a dermatologist. Supports that the FDA warns of a possible increased risk of lymphoma or skin cancer, while noting dermatologists have not observed this increased risk in day-to-day practice.
What it does not support
The page does not display its own separate revision date; the date recorded here matches the same AAD psoriasis treatment section’s dated overview page checked the same day. It does not explain the calcineurin mechanism of action, name a percentage of people who improve, or state a retail price.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Tacrolimus ointment, 0.03% and 0.1% (generic): US prescribing information (opens in a new tab)
DailyMed, U.S. National Library of MedicineRegulatory · Regulatory / guideline, tier 1Relevant relationship disclosed
Published
May 5, 2023
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
Why the independence label says this: The National Library of Medicine hosts DailyMed. The product company submits the label to FDA, so it is authoritative for product labeling but not independent psoriasis evidence.
What this source supports
Supports that a generic tacrolimus ointment, in both 0.03% and 0.1% strengths, is currently marketed under this label (packager Padagis Israel Pharmaceuticals Ltd, manufacturer LEO Laboratories Ltd), separate from the brand Protopic label cited above.
What it does not support
This label covers the atopic-dermatitis indication only; it does not approve tacrolimus for psoriasis or state a retail price.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
ZORYVE (roflumilast) cream: US prescribing information (opens in a new tab)
DailyMed, U.S. National Library of MedicineRegulatory · Regulatory / guideline, tier 1Relevant relationship disclosed
Published
Jan 1, 2024
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
Why the independence label says this: The National Library of Medicine hosts DailyMed. The product company (Arcutis Biotherapeutics) submits the label to FDA, so it is authoritative for product labeling but not independent psoriasis evidence.
What this source supports
Supports that ZORYVE cream 0.3% is FDA approved for topical treatment of plaque psoriasis, including intertriginous areas, in patients 2 years of age and older. Supports the mechanism (a phosphodiesterase-4, PDE4, inhibitor, working by inhibiting PDE4 enzyme activity and letting cyclic AMP build up inside cells, while stating the exact therapeutic mechanism remains incompletely understood). Supports the dosing (apply once daily to affected areas and rub in completely; topical use only, not for eye, mouth, or intravaginal use; wash hands after applying). Supports the most common adverse reactions reported in at least 1% of psoriasis trial participants: diarrhea (3.1%), headache (2.4%), insomnia (1.4%), nausea (1.2%), and application site pain (1.0%). Supports the contraindication in moderate to severe liver impairment (Child-Pugh B or C) and the drug-interaction caution with strong CYP3A4/CYP1A2 inhibitors.
What it does not support
The label does not carry a boxed warning, does not quantify how often any side effect leads someone to stop treatment, and does not state a retail price.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Psoriasis: Diagnosis and treatment (opens in a new tab)
American Academy of DermatologyPatient education · Patient education, tier 5Independent source
Published
May 22, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
What this source supports
Supports that roflumilast (Zoryve) cream is FDA approved for patients with plaque psoriasis, applied once a day as instructed. Supports that in the studies that led to approval it worked quickly to reduce itch and clear psoriasis. Supports that a roflumilast foam version treats scalp and body psoriasis, applied once daily. Supports the patient-facing side-effect list for the cream: diarrhea, headache, and feeling sick to your stomach (nausea). Supports, for tapinarof (VTAMA) cream, that it is prescribed for adults with mild, moderate, or severe psoriasis and can be applied anywhere on the body, including the face. Supports that about 40% of patients were clear or almost clear after 12 weeks of using it, and that patients who stopped after clearing stayed clear for an average of 12 weeks. Supports that the most common side effect is a skin reaction.
What it does not support
The page does not name an exact response percentage, a specific check-in timeline, or a retail price for roflumilast. For tapinarof, the page does not name folliculitis specifically, break down its "skin reaction" side effect by exact rate, or state a retail price.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Roflumilast (Zoryve): CADTH Reimbursement Review - Plaque Psoriasis (opens in a new tab)
Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health (CADTH)Systematic review · Clinical research, tier 2Independent source
Published
Nov 1, 2023
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
What this source supports
Supports the DERMIS-1 and DERMIS-2 phase 3 trial results at week 8: IGA success (clear or almost clear) in 42.4% (108 of 286) of the roflumilast group versus 6.1% (8 of 153) on vehicle in DERMIS-1, and 37.5% (99 of 290) versus 6.9% (9 of 152) in DERMIS-2. Supports PASI 75 (at least 75% clearer) in 41.6% versus 7.6% in DERMIS-1, and 39.0% versus 5.3% in DERMIS-2, both statistically significant.
What it does not support
This is a Canadian government health-technology-assessment review of the same pivotal trials the FDA reviewed, not a US regulatory document. It does not report results for any group narrower than the trial population as a whole (ages 12 and older), and it does not predict an individual result.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
ZORYVE Direct savings card - live snapshot captured September 8, 2026 (opens in a new tab)
Arcutis BiotherapeuticsManufacturer document · Manufacturer, tier 4Relevant relationship disclosed
Published
Sep 8, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
Why the independence label says this: The medicine manufacturer publishes its own savings-card terms and has a direct commercial interest in product access.
What this source supports
Supports that patients with commercial drug insurance may pay as little as $0 per prescription fill, up to a program savings limit. Supports that the offer is explicitly not valid for patients without commercial drug insurance, and not valid for anyone enrolled in a government healthcare program (Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE, or other federal/state programs). Supports that the offer is subject to change or discontinuation without notice and is limited to the United States and Puerto Rico.
What it does not support
Does not state a retail list price or what an uninsured or government-insured patient would pay without the separate patient-assistance program.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Arcutis Cares Patient Assistance Program - live snapshot captured September 8, 2026 (opens in a new tab)
Arcutis BiotherapeuticsManufacturer document · Manufacturer, tier 4Relevant relationship disclosed
Published
Sep 8, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
Why the independence label says this: The medicine manufacturer publishes its own patient-assistance program terms and has a direct commercial interest in product access.
What this source supports
Supports that Arcutis Cares provides Arcutis medicine, including ZORYVE, at no cost to patients who are uninsured or government-insured (Medicare or Medicaid) and cannot afford their copay. Eligibility also requires living in and being treated in the United States. Supports the income limit, based on 300% of the Federal Poverty Level: about $47,880 or less for one person, scaling up by household size. Supports that commercially insured patients are not eligible for this program and are directed to the separate ZORYVE Direct savings card instead.
What it does not support
Does not state a fixed coverage duration beyond "the benefit year" of enrollment, and does not guarantee approval for a given applicant.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
VTAMA (tapinarof) cream: US prescribing information (opens in a new tab)
DailyMed, U.S. National Library of MedicineRegulatory · Regulatory / guideline, tier 1Relevant relationship disclosed
Published
Jan 1, 2024
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
Why the independence label says this: The National Library of Medicine hosts DailyMed. The product company (Organon, formerly Dermavant Sciences) submits the label to FDA, so it is authoritative for product labeling but not independent psoriasis evidence.
What this source supports
Supports that VTAMA cream 1% is FDA approved for topical treatment of plaque psoriasis in adults, with no stated site or duration restriction, and is not for oral, ophthalmic, or intravaginal use. Supports the mechanism (an aryl hydrocarbon receptor, AhR, agonist), while stating the specific mechanisms by which VTAMA cream exerts its therapeutic actions in plaque psoriasis are unknown. Supports the dosing (apply a thin layer to affected areas once daily; wash hands after application unless treating the hands). Supports the PSOARING 1 and PSOARING 2 phase 3 trial results at week 12, defined as PGA success: a score of clear or almost clear with at least a 2-grade improvement from baseline. That was reached by 36% (n=340) of the tapinarof group versus 6% (n=170) on vehicle in PSOARING 1, and 40% (n=343) versus 6% (n=172) in PSOARING 2. Supports the remittive-effect finding: among the 73 trial responders who achieved complete clearance and had treatment withdrawn, the median time to first worsening (PGA of 2 or higher) was 114 days. Supports the most common adverse reactions in the combined psoriasis trials (683 on tapinarof, 342 on vehicle): folliculitis (20% vs 1%), nasopharyngitis (11% vs 9%), contact dermatitis (7% vs 1%), headache (4% vs 1%), itching (3% vs 1%), and influenza (2% vs 1%). Supports that the label lists no contraindications and carries no boxed warning.
What it does not support
The label does not approve tapinarof for psoriasis in anyone under 18, does not quantify how often any side effect leads someone to stop treatment, and does not state a retail price. Its pediatric approval is for a different condition (atopic dermatitis), not psoriasis.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
MyVTAMA Savings Card (plaque psoriasis) - live snapshot captured September 8, 2026 (opens in a new tab)
OrganonManufacturer document · Manufacturer, tier 4Relevant relationship disclosed
Published
Sep 8, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
Why the independence label says this: The medicine manufacturer publishes its own savings-card terms and has a direct commercial interest in product access.
What this source supports
Supports that patients with commercial drug insurance may pay as little as $0 per prescription fill, up to $35, for up to a 90-day supply. Supports that the offer is explicitly invalid for patients whose prescription claims are eligible to be reimbursed, in whole or in part, by any governmental program (Medicare, Medicaid, or similar). Supports that the offer is limited to residents of the United States, its territories, and Puerto Rico.
What it does not support
Does not state a retail list price or what an uninsured or government-insured patient would pay without the separate patient-assistance program.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Organon Patient Assistance Program: VTAMA - live snapshot captured September 8, 2026 (opens in a new tab)
OrganonManufacturer document · Manufacturer, tier 4Relevant relationship disclosed
Published
Sep 8, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
Why the independence label says this: The medicine manufacturer publishes its own patient-assistance program terms and has a direct commercial interest in product access.
What this source supports
Supports that the program provides Organon medicine, including VTAMA, at no cost to patients who have no insurance or other coverage for a prescription medicine and cannot afford to pay for it. Supports the income limit: household income that does not exceed 250% of the Federal Poverty Level. Supports the US-residency and US-licensed-prescriber requirements, and that a single approved application can provide up to a year of product free of charge, with reapplication allowed.
What it does not support
Does not cover patients who have any insurance or government coverage for the medicine, and does not guarantee approval for a given applicant.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Psoriasis treatment: Phototherapy (opens in a new tab)
American Academy of DermatologyPatient education · Patient education, tier 5Independent source
Published
Jan 1, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
What this source supports
Supports that narrowband UVB works by slowing the growth of rapidly growing skin cells and suppressing an overly active immune system. Supports that it also reduces inflammation and reduces or eliminates itch. Supports that most patients need regular sessions across several weeks, on a schedule the dermatologist sets and adjusts, and that steady improvement follows a consistent schedule. Supports that dermatologists typically evaluate response after the first several treatments. Supports the immediate side effects: a sunburn-like reaction, mild stinging or burning, dark spots more common in medium-to-dark complexions, itching, and rare blisters or burns. Supports the long-term effects: freckles, early skin aging, and increased skin cancer risk. Supports that the treatment is considered safe and effective for most people with psoriasis, including children, pregnant women, and people who are immunocompromised, without stating an exact success percentage.
What it does not support
Does not state a specific response percentage, does not quantify the rate of any individual side effect, and does not give a retail price or insurance-coverage detail.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Joint American Academy of Dermatology-National Psoriasis Foundation guidelines of care for the management and treatment of psoriasis with phototherapy (opens in a new tab)
Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (Elmets CA, et al.)Guideline · Regulatory / guideline, tier 1Relevant relationship disclosed
Published
Jul 25, 2019
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 15, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
Why the independence label says this: A joint guideline from a specialty society and a patient group. Authors report their own conflicts in the published article. It is authoritative for evidence grading, not independent proof for one reader.
What this source supports
Supports a grade-A recommendation for narrowband UVB monotherapy in adults with plaque psoriasis. Supports thrice-weekly dosing for generalized plaque psoriasis at grade B, noting twice-weekly dosing as an alternative some patients prefer despite a longer course. Supports that patients receiving twice-weekly narrowband UVB achieved clearance in a mean of 88 days, compared with 58 days for those receiving three treatments a week. Supports that maintenance therapy, once psoriasis has cleared, can continue as a taper or as an indefinite treatment every one to two weeks. Supports a grade-B recommendation for combining acitretin with PUVA. Cites one 60-patient trial of severe psoriasis in which 96 percent cleared with combined PUVA plus acitretin, compared with 80 percent on PUVA alone, using a 43 percent lower cumulative UVA dose in the combination group. Supports that acitretin can also be combined with broadband UVB for generalized plaque psoriasis, clearing patches more rapidly than UVB monotherapy with a lower required cumulative UVB dose. The full article text could not be fetched directly (blocked to automated retrieval); these figures were cross-verified via independently converging secondary reporting of the published guideline rather than read directly from the publisher page.
What it does not support
Does not predict an individual reader’s clearance timeline or guarantee any specific outcome, and does not itself state a retail cost. The acitretin-combination trial is a single 60-patient study, not a larger pooled result. It does not establish the same benefit for narrowband UVB specifically; the broadband-UVB combination finding is reported separately, without the same trial-level statistic. Acitretin carries its own pregnancy contraindication and monitoring needs that this source does not detail.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Narrowband-Ultraviolet B Phototherapy for Psoriasis Treatment in Skin of Color: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (opens in a new tab)
PMC (National Library of Medicine)Systematic review · Clinical research, tier 2Independent source
Published
Jan 1, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
What this source supports
Supports a pooled PASI75 response rate of 70.5% (95% CI 65-75%) from nine studies of narrowband UVB in psoriasis, covering roughly 1,334 participants with Fitzpatrick skin types III through V, mostly from Asia. Supports that studied regimens ranged from twice weekly for eight weeks to three times weekly for twelve weeks. Supports that one included study reached 93.3% target plaque clearance by 12 weeks when narrowband UVB was combined with topical tacalcitol. Supports that another study reported a mean time to clearance of about 32 days when combined with topical tazarotene. Supports post-treatment hyperpigmentation as a reported consideration in darker skin tones, and notes that reduced visibility of erythema in some skin of color patients may lead to underreporting of side effects.
What it does not support
Does not report data on skin cancer risk or long-term safety monitoring, and does not report outcomes for Fitzpatrick I-II skin. Its pooled response rate should not be read as a prediction for every skin tone or population.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Benefits and Costs of Biologics and Phototherapy in Psoriasis Treatment (opens in a new tab)
JAMA Dermatology (Kong EL, Buzney EA)Observational study · Clinical research, tier 2Independent source
Published
Feb 25, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
What this source supports
Supports a modeling study of 500,000 simulated adults with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis (mean baseline PASI 20.2). It compares biologic therapy, office-based phototherapy, home phototherapy, and a step-therapy plan. Supports mean yearly out-of-pocket costs of $2,000 for biologics, $5,004 for office phototherapy, and $1,450 for home phototherapy. Supports mean total yearly costs (patient plus payer) of $84,034 for biologics, $14,760 for office phototherapy, and $6,222 for home phototherapy. Supports mean PASI drops at 32 weeks of 91.6% for biologics, 71.1% for phototherapy, and 95.2% for the step-therapy plan. Supports mean QALY gains of 0.24, 0.18, and 0.23 in that same order.
What it does not support
Does not report outcomes for an individual reader: this is a simulated population, not a survey of real patient bills or real trial follow-up. It does not state what one reader’s own insurance plan will charge.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Psoriasis treatment: Methotrexate (opens in a new tab)
American Academy of DermatologyPatient education · Patient education, tier 5Independent source
Published
Jan 1, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
What this source supports
Supports that methotrexate works by suppressing the overactive immune system behind psoriasis, and can effectively treat severe psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and nail psoriasis. Supports that most people taking methotrexate see less psoriasis in four to six weeks, with full clearing sometimes taking up to six months. Supports that methotrexate is usually taken once a week, never more often without a dermatologist saying so. Supports that it comes as a pill, liquid, or at-home injection, and that it should be supplemented with folic acid. Supports the common side effects of vomiting, nausea, appetite loss, mouth sores, mouth redness and swelling, and fatigue. Supports that these should be reported to a dermatologist right away.
What it does not support
Does not report an exact side-effect rate, does not report a psoriasis-specific clinical-trial population, and does not predict an individual reader’s dose, response, or timeline.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Methotrexate for Psoriasis (opens in a new tab)
National Psoriasis FoundationPatient education · Patient education, tier 5Independence not established
Published
Mar 25, 2025
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
Why the independence label says this: The organization provides patient education, but its editorial and funding independence for this page was not independently reviewed. It is used only for patient-facing treatment-category and monitoring context.
What this source supports
Supports that methotrexate binds to and inhibits an enzyme involved in the rapid growth of skin cells, slowing that growth. Supports that regular blood tests are required to confirm the drug is being safely processed by the liver, white blood cells, and bone marrow. Supports that less common long-term risks include liver damage and reversible liver scarring, a reduced white blood cell count with higher infection risk, and rare lymphoma or bone marrow toxicity. Supports that alcohol should be avoided to reduce liver problems. Supports that men should be off methotrexate at least three months, and women at least four months, before trying to conceive.
What it does not support
Does not report an exact monitoring interval as a single universal schedule, does not report a psoriasis-specific trial population, and does not assess an individual reader’s risk.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
TREXALL (methotrexate) tablet, film coated - label (opens in a new tab)
U.S. National Library of Medicine (DailyMed)Regulatory · Regulatory / guideline, tier 1Independent source
Published
Jun 17, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
What this source supports
Supports the boxed warning, the label’s strongest warning, in four parts. It covers embryo-fetal toxicity, including fetal death; the drug is contraindicated in pregnancy for non-cancer use. It covers contraindication after a prior severe hypersensitivity reaction. It covers serious, sometimes fatal, reactions affecting the bone marrow, GI tract, liver, lungs, skin, and kidneys, which is why close monitoring is required. It covers death reported when tablets were taken daily by mistake instead of weekly. Supports the labeled psoriasis dosage of 10 to 25 mg orally once weekly, raised gradually to a maximum of 30 mg weekly, with folic or folinic acid supplementation recommended. Supports contraception during treatment and for 6 months after the final dose for females of reproductive potential, and 3 months after the final dose for males. Supports an adverse-reaction table from 12-18 week rheumatoid arthritis studies. At 10% or greater: elevated liver tests (15%) and nausea or vomiting (10%). In the 3%-10% range: stomatitis and low platelet count. In the 1%-3% range: rash, diarrhea, hair loss, and low blood-cell counts.
What it does not support
The adverse-reaction rate table comes from rheumatoid arthritis trials, not a study of people with psoriasis, and does not state how often any reaction occurs in psoriasis treatment. Does not predict an individual reader’s dose or response.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
An intensified dosing schedule of subcutaneous methotrexate in patients with moderate to severe plaque-type psoriasis (METOP): a 52 week, multicentre, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 3 trial (opens in a new tab)
The Lancet (Warren RB, et al.)Randomized trial · Clinical research, tier 2Independent source
Published
Dec 22, 2016
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
What this source supports
Supports a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 3 trial of subcutaneous (injected) methotrexate in 120 methotrexate-naive adults with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis. It ran at 16 sites in Germany, France, the Netherlands, and the UK, with 91 participants on methotrexate and 29 on placebo. Supports a PASI75 response in 37 of 91 (41%) methotrexate participants versus 3 of 29 (10%) placebo participants at week 16. Supports that subcutaneous methotrexate was generally well tolerated over the full 52-week treatment period, with no deaths, serious infections, malignancies, or major adverse cardiovascular events. Supports serious adverse events in 3% of methotrexate participants.
What it does not support
This trial studied the injected form, not the oral tablet form, and is one study population, not a guarantee of a given response for an individual reader. Does not report outcomes for methotrexate combined with another treatment.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Methotrexate pharmacy-price comparison - live snapshot captured September 8, 2026 (opens in a new tab)
GoodRxPatient education · Patient education, tier 5Relevant relationship disclosed
Published
Sep 8, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
Why the independence label says this: GoodRx is a commercial pharmacy-price and coupon marketplace. Displayed prices can vary by prescription, pharmacy, location, and time.
What this source supports
Supports only the dated retail-cash and coupon-discount price recorded for 24 tablets of generic methotrexate 2.5 mg: an average retail cash price of $97.15, and an average GoodRx-coupon price of $12.70.
What it does not support
It does not guarantee availability, coverage, coupon eligibility, or a personal price.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Psoriasis treatment: Cyclosporine (opens in a new tab)
American Academy of DermatologyPatient education · Patient education, tier 5Independent source
Published
Jan 1, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
What this source supports
Supports that cyclosporine is an immunosuppressant originally developed to prevent organ rejection in transplant recipients, and that its psoriasis benefit was found by accident in transplant patients. Supports that it is taken daily as a pill, at the same time each day, and that a course typically runs 12 to 16 weeks. Supports that 80% to 90% of patients treated for 12 to 16 weeks had rapid improvement, and that remission after stopping lasts about 14 weeks. Supports that the most serious possible side effects are kidney damage and high blood pressure, with blood pressure checked every other week initially. Supports an increased risk of squamous cell skin cancer, higher for people who have had more than 200 PUVA treatments. Supports avoiding grapefruit, grapefruit juice, St. John’s Wort, and heavy alcohol, and consulting a dermatologist before vaccination.
What it does not support
Does not report an exact side-effect rate, does not report a psoriasis-specific clinical-trial population, and does not predict an individual reader’s dose, response, or timeline.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Cyclosporine for Psoriasis (opens in a new tab)
National Psoriasis FoundationPatient education · Patient education, tier 5Independence not established
Published
Mar 25, 2025
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
Why the independence label says this: The organization provides patient education, but its editorial and funding independence for this page was not independently reviewed. It is used only for patient-facing treatment-category and monitoring context.
What this source supports
Supports that cyclosporine suppresses the immune system and slows the growth of certain immune cells. Supports that it is taken daily by mouth as a capsule or liquid, and that a lower dose may be used when combined with a topical treatment. Supports that the FDA recommends cyclosporine not be used for longer than one year, though some doctors prescribe it longer, and that there is no specific guideline for how long to wait before resuming it. Supports that some improvement can appear after two weeks on stronger doses, with three to four months typically needed to reach optimal control. Supports that people previously treated with methotrexate, PUVA, UVB, coal tar, or radiation therapy face an increased skin-cancer risk on cyclosporine. Supports that kidney function is monitored before and during treatment, blood pressure is checked frequently, grapefruit juice should be avoided, and vaccines may be less effective while on cyclosporine.
What it does not support
Does not report an exact monitoring interval as a single universal schedule, does not report a psoriasis-specific trial population, and does not assess an individual reader’s risk.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
NEORAL (cyclosporine) capsule, liquid filled - label (opens in a new tab)
U.S. National Library of Medicine (DailyMed)Regulatory · Regulatory / guideline, tier 1Independent source
Published
Aug 10, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
What this source supports
Supports two boxed warnings, the label’s strongest warnings. The first states that only physicians experienced in immunosuppressive therapy should prescribe cyclosporine, because of an increased risk of infection and malignancy. The second, specific to psoriasis, states that patients previously treated with PUVA face an increased risk of skin cancer on cyclosporine, and that cyclosporine can cause hypertension and kidney damage (nephrotoxicity). Supports a labeled psoriasis dosing range of 2.5 mg/kg/day to a maximum of 4.0 mg/kg/day, split into two daily doses. Supports that blood pressure and serum creatinine/BUN should be evaluated every two weeks during the initial three months of therapy, then monthly if the patient is stable. Supports that psoriasis patients with abnormal kidney function, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or malignancy should not receive cyclosporine. Supports that concurrent PUVA, UVB, methotrexate, other immunosuppressive agents, coal tar, or radiation therapy should not be given with it. Supports that most patients relapse after stopping.
What it does not support
This label, as currently published, does not itself state a fixed outer limit on how long a course of psoriasis treatment may run; it states only that relapse is expected after stopping. Does not predict an individual reader’s dose or response.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Cyclosporine modified pharmacy-price comparison - live snapshot captured September 8, 2026 (opens in a new tab)
GoodRxPatient education · Patient education, tier 5Relevant relationship disclosed
Published
Sep 8, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
Why the independence label says this: GoodRx is a commercial pharmacy-price and coupon marketplace. Displayed prices can vary by prescription, pharmacy, location, and time.
What this source supports
Supports only the dated retail-cash and coupon-discount price recorded for 30 capsules of generic cyclosporine modified 100 mg: an average retail cash price of $145.95, and an average GoodRx-coupon price of $40.82.
What it does not support
It does not guarantee availability, coverage, coupon eligibility, or a personal price.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Psoriasis treatment: Oral retinoids (opens in a new tab)
American Academy of DermatologyPatient education · Patient education, tier 5Independent source
Published
Jan 1, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
What this source supports
Supports that acitretin is an oral retinoid, related to vitamin A, that the FDA has approved for severe psoriasis and that it does not suppress the immune system. Supports that it treats guttate, plaque, and pustular psoriasis on the hands and feet, extensive pustular psoriasis, erythrodermic psoriasis, and severe psoriasis in HIV-positive patients. Supports that it is taken once a day after the main meal, with fat-containing food or milk to help absorption. Supports that most patients start seeing some improvement after about two weeks, and that it can take up to twelve weeks. Supports common side effects including cracked and swollen lips, dry eyes and mouth, chapped skin, hair loss, brittle nails, unhealthy cholesterol levels, and vision problems. Supports that women who are pregnant or plan to become pregnant should not take acitretin. Supports that they must wait three years after stopping before trying to become pregnant, and should not donate blood during that same three-year window.
What it does not support
Does not report a psoriasis-specific clinical-trial adverse-reaction rate table, does not report an alcohol-interaction warning, and does not predict an individual reader’s dose, response, or timeline.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Soriatane for Psoriasis (opens in a new tab)
National Psoriasis FoundationPatient education · Patient education, tier 5Independence not established
Published
Jan 1, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
Why the independence label says this: The organization provides patient education, but its editorial and funding independence for this page was not independently reviewed. It is used only for patient-facing treatment-category and monitoring context.
What this source supports
Supports that Soriatane (acitretin) is FDA-approved for severe plaque, guttate, pustular, erythrodermic, or palmoplantar psoriasis in adults, and that the exact way it controls psoriasis is not known. Supports that it comes in 10 mg and 25 mg capsules taken once daily with food, with the dose adjusted by individual response. Supports that skin improvement usually appears after eight to sixteen weeks, and that peak effect can take up to six months, especially for plaque psoriasis. Supports that it is often combined with phototherapy, and sometimes with biologics or used in rotation with cyclosporine or methotrexate. Supports the pregnancy contraindication and the requirement for two negative pregnancy tests and two forms of birth control. Supports the restriction against alcohol during treatment and for two months after stopping, to prevent conversion to a longer-lasting related compound. Supports common side effects including hair loss, dry skin and mouth, bleeding gums, nosebleeds, peeling fingertips, mood changes, headache, joint pain, night-vision changes, and elevated liver enzymes. Supports the three-year blood-donation restriction after stopping treatment.
What it does not support
Does not report a psoriasis-specific clinical-trial population size, does not report an exact reaction rate, and does not assess an individual reader’s risk.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
SORIATANE (acitretin) capsule - label (opens in a new tab)
U.S. National Library of Medicine (DailyMed)Regulatory · Regulatory / guideline, tier 1Independent source
Published
Jun 1, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
What this source supports
Supports the boxed warning that Soriatane must not be used by anyone who is pregnant, or who intends to become pregnant at any time within three years of stopping. Supports contraindication in patients with severely impaired liver or kidney function, or abnormally elevated blood lipids, and contraindication for concurrent methotrexate (hepatitis risk) or tetracyclines (intracranial pressure risk). Supports that vitamin A and other oral retinoids must be avoided concurrently, and that phototherapy doses must be reduced when combined with Soriatane because of an increased burn risk. Supports initial dosing of 25 to 50 mg per day as a single dose with the main meal, with maintenance dosing adjusted by individual response. Supports the requirement for two negative pregnancy tests before starting, and two effective forms of birth control for at least one month before through three years after treatment. Supports a repeated pregnancy test every three months during that three-year window. Supports the alcohol restriction for female patients of reproductive potential during treatment and for two months after, due to conversion to a longer-lasting related compound. Supports common reactions in more than three-quarters of patients (cheilitis, dry eyes, skin peeling, dry skin, hair loss, nail disorder, joint pain). Supports serious reactions including hepatitis, pancreatitis, a pressure buildup around the brain, and depression. Supports liver-function and lipid testing before treatment and every one to two weeks until levels are stable.
What it does not support
This label, as currently published, does not itself state a fixed outer limit on how long a course of psoriasis treatment may run; it states only that maintenance dosing is adjusted by response. Does not predict an individual reader’s dose or response.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Acitretin pharmacy-price comparison - live snapshot captured September 8, 2026 (opens in a new tab)
GoodRxPatient education · Patient education, tier 5Relevant relationship disclosed
Published
Sep 8, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
Why the independence label says this: GoodRx is a commercial pharmacy-price and coupon marketplace. Displayed prices can vary by prescription, pharmacy, location, and time.
What this source supports
Supports only the dated retail-cash and coupon-discount price recorded for 30 capsules of generic acitretin 25 mg: an average retail cash price of $902.27, and an average GoodRx-coupon price of $89.19.
What it does not support
It does not guarantee availability, coverage, coupon eligibility, or a personal price.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
OTEZLA (apremilast) tablet, film coated - label (opens in a new tab)
U.S. National Library of Medicine (DailyMed)Regulatory · Regulatory / guideline, tier 1Independent source
Published
Dec 1, 2025
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
What this source supports
Supports that Otezla (apremilast) is a PDE4 inhibitor that increases intracellular cAMP, and that its specific mechanism of therapeutic action is not well defined. Supports the plaque-psoriasis indication for adult and eligible pediatric patients who are candidates for phototherapy or systemic therapy, regardless of severity, and the separate psoriatic-arthritis and Behçet’s-disease-oral-ulcer indications. Supports the warning against strong CYP3A4 inducers such as rifampin, phenobarbital, carbamazepine, and phenytoin, since rifampin reduced apremilast’s AUC by 72% and loss of efficacy may occur. Supports the reduced maintenance dose (30 mg or 20 mg once daily, by age/weight) for severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance under 30 mL/min). Supports the exact five-day titration schedule (10 mg day 1 AM, up to 30 mg BID by day 6) and the Otezla XR 75 mg once-daily maintenance alternative. Supports the depression/suicidal-ideation warning, the weight-loss monitoring requirement (10-12% of adults lost 5-10% body weight in trials), and the dosage-reduction guidance for severe diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting. Supports the plaque-psoriasis trial adverse-reaction rates: diarrhea 17%, nausea 17%, upper respiratory tract infection 9%, headache 6%. Supports that no boxed warning is present on this label.
What it does not support
This label does not report an age, skin-tone, race, or ethnicity breakdown of its plaque-psoriasis trial adverse-reaction rates. It also does not state how often a reaction leads to stopping treatment, or predict an individual reader’s dose or response.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Apremilast - Psoriasis treatment (opens in a new tab)
American Academy of DermatologyPatient education · Patient education, tier 5Independent source
Published
Jan 1, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
What this source supports
Supports that apremilast is an oral medicine for plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis that works by controlling inflammation in immune cells. Supports that, unlike other strong psoriasis medicines, no medical tests are required while taking it. Supports that clinical trials found no difference in response between patients 65 and older and younger patients. Supports that by week 16, about 20% of patients were clear or almost clear, and about a third saw 75% or greater improvement. Supports that apremilast greatly reduced itch for many patients. Supports that many nail-psoriasis patients saw improvement, some a 50% reduction, by week 16, and that more than 40% of scalp-psoriasis patients were clear or almost clear by week 16. Supports common side effects including diarrhea, nausea, headache, respiratory infections, vomiting, and cold-like symptoms, and that depression and suicidal thoughts are a serious concern. Supports advising a dermatologist if pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding.
What it does not support
Does not report a psoriasis-specific clinical-trial adverse-reaction rate table with exact percentages by reaction, and does not predict an individual reader’s dose, response, or timeline.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Otezla for Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis (opens in a new tab)
National Psoriasis FoundationPatient education · Patient education, tier 5Independence not established
Published
Jan 1, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
Why the independence label says this: The organization provides patient education, but its editorial and funding independence for this page was not independently reviewed. It is used only for patient-facing treatment-category and combination context.
What this source supports
Supports that Otezla (apremilast) treats psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis by inhibiting PDE4, an enzyme that controls much of the inflammatory action within cells. Supports that it operates similarly to biologic treatments by targeting specific immune-system components. Supports that it comes as a 30 mg tablet requiring a five-day dose-escalation period before reaching the recommended 30 mg twice-daily dose. Supports that continuous use is necessary to maintain benefits. Supports that Otezla has been shown to be safe and effective when taken with methotrexate, and can be combined with phototherapy or topical treatments. Supports common side effects including diarrhea, nausea, tension headaches, and upper respiratory infections. Supports that severe gastrointestinal issues, depression, and weight loss were documented in some trial patients.
What it does not support
Does not report cost, insurance coverage, patient-assistance-program terms, or comparative-effectiveness data against other psoriasis treatments, and does not assess an individual reader’s risk.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Otezla Co-Pay Program terms, plaque psoriasis (opens in a new tab)
AmgenManufacturer document · Manufacturer, tier 4Relevant relationship disclosed
Published
Jan 1, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
Why the independence label says this: Amgen manufactures Otezla and operates this patient-access page. It is a first-party statement about its own copay program, not independent pricing evidence.
What this source supports
Supports that eligible patients with commercial insurance may pay as little as $0 a month out of pocket through the Otezla Co-Pay Program. Supports that the program is available regardless of income level, and that it excludes patients on Medicare, Medicaid, or another government-funded plan. Supports that the Amgen Safety Net Foundation, a nonprofit patient-assistance program, can help qualifying uninsured or underinsured patients access Otezla at no cost.
What it does not support
A manufacturer copay-card page does not state a specific annual dollar maximum, does not guarantee any one reader would qualify, and does not establish what a reader would actually pay.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Otezla (apremilast) pharmacy-price comparison - live snapshot captured September 8, 2026 (opens in a new tab)
GoodRxPatient education · Patient education, tier 5Relevant relationship disclosed
Published
Sep 8, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
Why the independence label says this: GoodRx is a commercial pharmacy-price and coupon marketplace. Displayed prices can vary by prescription, pharmacy, location, and time.
What this source supports
Supports only the dated retail-cash and coupon-discount price range recorded for 60 tablets of Otezla 30 mg: an average retail cash price between $6,965.58 and $7,116.84 across two independent search snapshots.
What it does not support
Supports a converged GoodRx-coupon price of $3,353.53. Also supports that no generic apremilast is commercially available as of this snapshot. It does not guarantee availability, coverage, coupon eligibility, or a personal price.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
SOTYKTU (deucravacitinib) tablet, film coated - label (opens in a new tab)
U.S. National Library of Medicine (DailyMed)Regulatory · Regulatory / guideline, tier 1Independent source
Published
Jun 1, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
What this source supports
Supports that Sotyktu (deucravacitinib) is a TYK2 inhibitor. Supports that it binds the regulatory domain of TYK2 rather than the catalytic domain, stabilizing an inhibitory interaction that produces allosteric inhibition of receptor-mediated TYK2 activation and downstream STAT signaling. Supports the moderate-to-severe plaque-psoriasis indication for adults who are candidates for systemic therapy or phototherapy. Supports the separate active-psoriatic-arthritis indication for adults. Supports the caution against combining it with other potent immunosuppressants and against live vaccines during treatment. Supports the recommendation to evaluate for tuberculosis before starting. Supports the precaution against starting during an active or serious infection, including active hepatitis B or C. Supports that no dose adjustment is needed for renal impairment or mild-to-moderate liver impairment. Supports that severe liver impairment is not recommended. Supports the fixed 6 mg once-daily dose with or without food and no titration schedule. Supports the instruction not to crush, cut, or chew the tablet. Supports the PASI 75 response rates at week 16 for deucravacitinib, placebo, and the apremilast comparator arm in both POETYK PSO-1 and PSO-2 trials (PSO-1: 58% vs 13% vs 35%; PSO-2: 53% vs 9% vs 40%). Supports the week 24 PASI 75 rates for deucravacitinib versus the apremilast arm (PSO-1: 69% vs 38%; PSO-2: 58% vs 38%). Supports the infection-risk warning and the herpes zoster reports, including a multidermatomal presentation. Supports the lymphoma reports (0.3 per 100 patient-years) and the creatine-phosphokinase/triglyceride/liver-enzyme monitoring guidance. Supports the plaque-psoriasis trial adverse-reaction rates at week 16 (upper respiratory infection 19.2% vs 14.8% placebo, blood CPK increased 2.7% vs 1.2%, herpes simplex 2.0% vs 0.2%, mouth ulcers 1.9% vs 0%, folliculitis 1.7% vs 0%, acne 1.4% vs 0.2%). Supports that no boxed warning is present on this label.
What it does not support
This label does not report an age, skin-tone, race, or ethnicity breakdown of its plaque-psoriasis trial adverse-reaction rates. It also does not state how often a reaction leads to stopping treatment, or predict an individual reader’s dose or response.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Sotyktu for Psoriasis (opens in a new tab)
National Psoriasis FoundationPatient education · Patient education, tier 5Independence not established
Published
Jan 1, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
Why the independence label says this: The organization provides patient education, but its editorial and funding independence for this page was not independently reviewed. It is used only for patient-facing mechanism and treatment-category context.
What this source supports
Supports that Sotyktu is the brand name for deucravacitinib, an oral systemic treatment taken once daily by mouth. Supports that it works similarly to biologics by targeting the TYK2 part of the immune system, reducing the overactive immune response behind psoriasis. Supports that it was the first tyrosine kinase inhibitor approved for psoriasis. Supports that it was the first novel oral therapy for psoriasis in a decade. Supports the plain-language list of common side effects: upper respiratory infection, elevated blood creatine phosphokinase, herpes simplex, mouth ulcers, folliculitis, and acne.
What it does not support
Does not report titration details, PASI or trial-response data, dosing adjustments for organ impairment, or cost. Does not report comparative-effectiveness data against other psoriasis treatments, or assess an individual reader’s risk.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
SOTYKTU 360 Support Co-Pay Assistance Program terms, plaque psoriasis (opens in a new tab)
Bristol Myers SquibbManufacturer document · Manufacturer, tier 4Relevant relationship disclosed
Published
Jan 1, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
Why the independence label says this: Bristol Myers Squibb manufactures Sotyktu and operates this patient-access page and its own patient assistance foundation. These are first-party statements about its own programs, not independent pricing evidence.
What this source supports
Supports that eligible patients with commercial insurance may pay as little as $0 per 30-day supply through the SOTYKTU 360 Support Co-Pay Assistance Program. Supports that this benefit is subject to monthly, annual, or per-claim maximums that vary by patient. Supports that the program explicitly excludes patients with prescription coverage through a state or federal healthcare program, including Medicare, Medicaid, Medigap, CHAMPUS, TRICARE, VA, or DOD programs. Supports that cash-paying patients without insurance are not eligible for this specific program. Supports that Bristol Myers Squibb separately operates the independent Bristol Myers Squibb Patient Assistance Foundation. Supports that this foundation can provide free medication to qualifying uninsured patients experiencing financial hardship.
What it does not support
A manufacturer copay-card page does not state a specific dollar maximum, does not guarantee any one reader would qualify for either program, and does not establish what a reader would actually pay.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Sotyktu (deucravacitinib) pharmacy-price comparison - live snapshot captured September 8, 2026 (opens in a new tab)
GoodRxPatient education · Patient education, tier 5Relevant relationship disclosed
Published
Sep 8, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
Why the independence label says this: GoodRx is a commercial pharmacy-price and coupon marketplace. Displayed prices can vary by prescription, pharmacy, location, and time.
What this source supports
Supports only the dated retail-cash and coupon-discount price recorded for 30 tablets of Sotyktu 6 mg across two independent search snapshots.
What it does not support
Supports an average retail cash price of roughly $6,978, and a converged GoodRx-coupon price of roughly $6,832. Also supports that no generic deucravacitinib is commercially available as of this snapshot. It does not guarantee availability, coverage, coupon eligibility, or a personal price.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Biologics (opens in a new tab)
National Psoriasis FoundationPatient education · Patient education, tier 5Independence not established
Published
Jan 1, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
Why the independence label says this: The organization provides patient education, but its editorial and funding independence for this page was not independently reviewed. It is used only for patient-facing class-grouping, administration-route, and screening context.
What this source supports
Supports that biologics for psoriasis are identified by their immune target. Named groupings include TNF-alpha inhibitors (naming Enbrel, Humira, Remicade as examples), IL-17 inhibitors (blocking interleukin 17-A), IL-23 inhibitors (blocking interleukins 12 and 23), IL-36 inhibitors, and T-cell inhibitors. Supports that biologics are taken by injection or IV infusion depending on the label, and that some injections can be self-administered at home. Supports that screening for tuberculosis or other infectious disease is often required before starting, and that biologics can increase infection risk, with fever, cough, or flu-like symptoms as signs to report right away.
What it does not support
Does not report a complete, single four-class taxonomy in one place, PASI or trial-response data, dosing frequency, cost, or a full side-effect list. Does not predict an individual reader’s response or risk.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Psoriasis treatment: Biologics (opens in a new tab)
American Academy of DermatologyPatient education · Patient education, tier 5Independent source
Published
Jan 1, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
What this source supports
Supports that a biologic specifically targets, or quiets, the part of the immune system that is overactive because of psoriasis. Supports the twelve named FDA-approved biologics (Cimzia/certolizumab pegol, Cosentyx/secukinumab, Enbrel/etanercept, Humira/adalimumab, Ilumya/tildrakizumab, Remicade/infliximab, Siliq/brodalumab, Simponi/golimumab, Skyrizi/risankizumab, Stelara/ustekinumab, Taltz/ixekizumab, Tremfya/guselkumab). Supports that dosing is given as a shot or an infusion, with dosing frequency ranging from twice a week to once every three months. Supports that infliximab specifically requires an in-office or infusion-center IV infusion rather than a self-administered shot. Supports that biologics can stop psoriatic-arthritis joint pain, stiffness, and swelling and prevent it from worsening. Supports the common side effects of upper respiratory tract infection, injection-site skin reaction, flu-like symptoms, urinary tract infection, and headache. Supports that biologics raise infection risk, particularly for people with diabetes, tobacco use, an infection history, or advanced age. Supports that blood tests and tuberculosis testing are typically required before starting, with some patients needing additional tests. Supports that four biologics are FDA-approved for children with moderate-to-severe psoriasis from around age four to six and up, depending on the drug.
What it does not support
Does not report PASI or other trial-response data, a boxed-warning quote for any specific drug, an exact screening protocol, or cost/pricing information. Does not predict an individual reader’s response or risk.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Adalimumab Injection (opens in a new tab)
U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus)Patient education · Patient education, tier 5Independent source
Published
Jan 1, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
What this source supports
Supports the adalimumab (Humira) label’s boxed-warning language. It states adalimumab injection may decrease the ability to fight infection and increase the chance of developing a serious infection. Supports that some children, teenagers, and young adults who received adalimumab or a similar medication developed severe or life-threatening cancers. Supports that adults receiving adalimumab may be more likely to develop skin cancer, lymphoma, and other cancers. Supports that a doctor will perform a TB skin test and may order a hepatitis B blood test before starting, and may treat a latent infection first if one is found.
What it does not support
Reports only on adalimumab, one drug in the TNF class, not on every TNF-class drug’s own label or on any IL-17, IL-23, or IL-12/23 drug. Does not report PASI/trial-response data, dosing frequency, or cost. Does not predict an individual reader’s risk.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Biologic Therapy | Psoriasis | Clinical Guidance (opens in a new tab)
HealioPatient education · Patient education, tier 5Independent source
Published
Jan 1, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
What this source supports
Supports week 12-16 PASI response ranges by biologic class, summarized from the joint AAD-NPF biologics guideline and related clinical literature. Anti-TNF agents: roughly 49%-80% PASI 75. The IL-12/23 drug ustekinumab: roughly 66%-75% PASI 75. IL-17 agents: roughly 77%-91% PASI 90. IL-23 p19 agents: roughly 70%-75% PASI 90. Supports that brodalumab’s label carries a boxed warning calling for regular evaluation of suicide risk, and that bimekizumab’s current US prescribing information includes a Warning and Precaution for suicidal ideation and behavior. Supports a general statement that TNF-class registries and studies warn that these medicines could potentially increase infection risk.
What it does not support
Is a secondary clinical-guidance summary, not the primary guideline document or a primary trial report itself. Does not report a single head-to-head trial comparing classes on the same PASI threshold, a specific reader’s risk, or cost.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
Paying for Treatment (opens in a new tab)
National Psoriasis FoundationPatient education · Patient education, tier 5Independence not established
Published
Jan 1, 2026
SteadySkin last checked
Sep 8, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
Why the independence label says this: The organization provides patient education and its own navigation service, but its editorial and funding independence for this page was not independently reviewed. It is used only for the quoted description of its own Patient Navigator service.
What this source supports
Supports that the National Psoriasis Foundation offers a Patient Navigator. The page describes it as available to "connect with a friendly, experienced Patient Navigator for personalized help getting the treatment you need."
What it does not support
Does not report specific manufacturer copay-program terms, patient-assistance-program eligibility, or pricing for any named biologic. Does not guarantee outcome or eligibility for a specific reader.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.
British Association of Dermatologists and British Photodermatology Group guidelines for narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy 2022 (opens in a new tab)
British Journal of Dermatology (Goulden V, et al.)Guideline · Regulatory / guideline, tier 1Independent source
Published
Sep 1, 2022
SteadySkin last checked
Aug 22, 2026
What this source can and cannot tell you
What this source supports
It supports that traditional NB-UVB fluorescent lamps emit a narrow UVB band peaking around 311 nanometres. It backs wearing UV-protective goggles and keeping UV scatter off people nearby. It records the consent form naming goggles and the same clothing at each session. It also covers clinical uses, how it compares with other light treatments, safety limits including sunburn-type reactions, and the added safeguards home phototherapy needs.
What it does not support
It does not provide a personal treatment plan, approve a particular home setup, or replace the instructions for your own device. SteadySkin never reproduces its treatment schedules.
Claim-specific review for this source is still in progress. Only the source-level evidence and limits are shown here.

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