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Plaque psoriasis is the most common form of psoriasis affecting around 90% of all those suffering with this skin disease. Usually mild to moderate psoriasis can be treated effectively by topical medications, but in more stubborn or severe cases it needs something stronger and more effective. This is why oral retinoids are prescribed. Here we will discuss one of these oral retinoids, Soriatane.

What is Soriatane and who is it prescribed to?
Soriatane is an oral medication prescribed to treat severe cases of plaque psoriasis, the most common form of psoriasis, when other treatments have failed to work. Psoriasis is classed as severe when it affects more than 10% of your body or when it stops you from performing everyday activities.

Soriatane, also known as acitretin, is an oral retinoid, a synthetic form of Vitamin A. Doctors have long known that large doses of Vitamin A can help reduce the thickness and scaliness of the skin. However, large doses are very toxic to the body and can cause damage to the liver. Soriatane was developed to mimic the effects of Vitamin A without same levels toxicity. It works is by controlling the reproduction of skin cells, the speed at which the cells grow and shed, and by decreasing inflammation. Unlike some other psoriasis medications, Soriatane does not cause cell damage or suppress the immune system.

Clinical studies have shown that a large percentage of patients taking Soriatane significantly improved within eight weeks and about one third experienced almost complete remission from their symptoms within six months. This is why Soriatane is claimed an effective treatment for severe plaque psoriasis. However, it is important to note that taking Soriatane can cause risks for pregnant women.

Who shouldn’t take Soriatane?
In 1983 another retinoid, Accutane, was reported to cause birth defects in some babies born to women taking this drug. There also seemed to be a higher risk of miscarriage for pregnant women. It was, therefore, recommended that this and other closely related retinoids, including Soriatane, shouldn’t be taken by pregnant women or women planning to become pregnant within the next three years. In fact, women of childbearing age have to take two negative pregnancy tests before they can start taking Soriatane. They also have to agree to use two forms of contraception at the same time, at least a month before the start of treatment, during the treatment and for three years after completing the treatment. It’s advised not to take progestin-only contraceptive pills since they may not work while taking Soriatane.

It’s because taking Soriatane is highly dangerous for women who may become pregnant that this drug is mainly recommended for men, post-menopausal women or for women who have undergone sterilization or a hysterectomy.

Are there any other side effects of Soriatane?
Apart from possible risks to pregnant women, there have been other reported side effects. Common side effects include dry skin and lips; whilst less common are joint pain, abnormal bone growth, changes in cholesterol and triglyceride levels and vision problems. Even more serious side effects reported are liver problems, pancreatitis and even cases of depression and thoughts of self harm. Anyone experiencing any of these symptoms should seek the advice of their physician.

Suffering with severe plaque psoriasis, or indeed any other form of psoriasis, can cause many problems both physically and mentally. The good news is that there is help available and you owe it to yourself to gain more information so that you can take effective action. To learn more about http://www.clearskinguide.info/Psoriasis-Cure/

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psoriasis cures, visit my Clear Skin Guide website.

Vicky Massey has a wide experience of alternative health and healing. She has a degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine and qualifications in massage, nutrition, healing and yoga.

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Skin conditions can be the result of medication side effects, sun damage or hereditary genes handed down through the family tree. Psoriasis is one such skin condition that has a tendency to run from generation to generation. It is also unpredictable and can bypass an entire generation and show up again in the grandchildren as they get older.

Psoriasis is a skin condition in which skin cells multiply 10 times faster than normal. When the skin cells reach the surface they die and because of the amount of cells being produced, they do not shed from the body fast enough. The cells begin to stagnate on the surface and cause inflamed tissue with a white scaly shell.

Psoriasis typically affects specific areas like the elbow, knee and scalp although other areas of the body can be affected like the bottom of the feet and palms of the hands.

The cause of Psoriasis is thought to be tied to a malfunction of the immune system and can trigger flare-ups during high emotional stress. Over 75% of patients have reported stressful situations in their lives that corresponded to an increase in red itchy skin that resulted in the crusty patches showing up on their bodies.

These triggers could be the result of a stressful job situation or other life changing event and although symptoms can last for several months, it is usually not life threatening. Unfortunately, it is an embarrassing condition that can add to high anxiety and can come in cycles over the course of a lifetime.

In summary, if you are seeing an increase in red patchy skin along your elbows and knees, it is best to consult your physician for further diagnosis and treatment. [http://gravitygarden.com/itchy-skin-all-over/itchy-scalp-red.html]Itchy red skin during stressful times can be something more than hives. You can find more information at
http://gravitygarden.com/itchy-skin-all-over/index.html

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