Effectiveness of medication

[Ian Roxburgh]

I have psoriasis mainly on scalp, elbows and knees. I find that, after a time, the ointments that I am prescribed - and I have had lots of different types - are effective only for a limited period and then cease to have much impact. Is this the norm and medications require to be changed regularly?
Also, I find that my skin conditions seem much less troublesome (itch, etc) when away from home but as soon as I return, I always get flare-ups. I am wondering if there are environmental factors involved eg the particular type of water in my area?

[Dr Anton Alexandroff]

Dear Mr Roxburgh,

Thank you for your question. Sometimes skin stops responding to some treatments. Rotation of treatments seems to be helpful. Ask your GP or dermatologist to prescribe you Enstilar foam for body and Etrivex shampoo for scalp.
I wonder if you also may have a dermatitis and became allergic to a particular chemical. Ask your dermatologist for a patch test.

I hope this is helpful.
With Best Wishes,

Dr Anton Alexandroff FRCP(UK) PhD CCT(Derm) FRSM FAAD
Consultant Dermatologist and Honorary Senior Lecturer
The British Skin Foundation Spokesperson
London, Cambridge, Leicester and Bedford

http://www.alexandroff.org.uk
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