Therapy Approved for Treatment of Psoriasis
Therapy Approved for Treatment of Psoriasis
A new drug has recently gained approval by the FDA for the treatment
of psoriasis. This topical product, called Vectical, is a naturally occurring
form of vitamin D3 and is the first product of its kind in the US. This new
therapy is approved for use in adults with mild to moderate plaque
psoriasis. Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that afflicts up to 3% of
the US population. This condition produces red, scaly areas on the
surface of the skin that grow to form thick plaques. Not only is this
condition difficult to treat, it is also sometimes associated with other
chronic conditions, such as heart disease and obesity.
The approval was based on two eight-week studies that examined
the effects of Vectical in 839 healthy adults. At conclusion of these
studies, the investigators found over 30% of those who used Vectical
saw marked improvement. This product had minimal side effects and
was well-tolerated in these studies – even in sensitive areas of the skin,
such as skin folds. Vectical also appears to be safe to use long term,
unlike certain other treatments for psoriasis, which can only be used
over short periods of time.