Once-daily topical treatment for psoriasis: Calcipotriene + betamethasone two-compound topical formulation

Abstract

Background: Topical treatments are usually effective in mild psoriasis. However, the complexity of their use may result in low patient adherence with treatment. Combination of a vitamin D analog and a corticosteroid into a two-compound topical formulation has increased effcacy compared with either drug administered alone. Once-daily application of such a product would likely improve adherence. The purpose of this study was to determine whether twice-daily application of a calcipotriene + betamethasone topical formulation can provide improved clinical outcomes compared with once-daily treatment with the same product. Methods: A review of the literature was performed seeking clinical trials comparing once-daily versus twice-daily application of calcipotriene + betamethasone topical formulations for the treatment of psoriasis. Results: We found only one relevant clinical trial. This study showed similar effcacy and safety with once-daily versus twice-daily application of a topical calcipotriene + betamethasone formulation in the treatment of psoriasis vulgaris. Conclusion: Once-daily application of a topical calcipotriene + betamethasone formulation may offer increased patient convenience and potentially increased patient adherence with long-term treatment, compared with twice-daily use, without reducing the effcacy. In order to enhance adherence, patient preference regarding frequency of application of topical treatments should be considered when prescribing medications. © 2014 Shepherd et al.