Fixed-dose combination calcipotriol/betamethasone dipropionate foam provides a rapid onset of action, effective itch relief and improves patient quality of life

Abstract

The physical symptoms of psoriasis vulgaris (chronic plaque psoriasis), such as itch and itch-related sleep loss, and the psychological impact of visible plaques on the body, all contribute to significantly reduced health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients with psoriasis. In fact, the deterioration of HRQoL in patients with psoriasis is similar to patients with other chronic conditions, such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Rapid and effective improvements in HRQoL and itch-related outcomes would therefore be highly valued by patients and may even improve adherence to treatment. In this article, we summarise previously published data assessing the impact of fixed-dose combination calcipotriol 50 µg/g plus betamethasone dipropionate 0.5 mg/g cutaneous foam (Cal/BD foam) on itch relief, quality of sleep, onset of action and HRQoL. Findings across multiple analyses indicate that Cal/BD foam provides significant improvements in itch, itch-related sleep loss and HRQoL compared with vehicle foam or Cal/BD gel comparators. Additionally, the benefits of Cal/BD foam were recorded earlier than these comparators, often within 1 week of treatment, indicating a rapid onset of action. With the published data to hand, it is clear that Cal/BD foam provides significant improvements in the outcomes that matter most to patients and should be considered an effective topical treatment for psoriasis.