By Allison Sit
American Journal of Managed Care published an article based on a February JDD study about the relationship between early response and long-term efficacy of biologics in psoriasis. The article, “Early Response to Biologics Linked With Stable Long-term Efficacy in Psoriasis,” is based on the study, “Early Response is Associated With Stable Long-Term Response in Psoriasis Patients Receiving Ixekizumab or Ustekinumab,” by Mathias Augustin, MD, and colleagues. The post hoc subgroup analysis looked at whether early response to ixekizumab or ustekinumab was associated with a complete or almost complete long-term skin clearance. The authors found that in patients with moderate to severe psoriasis treated with ixekizumab or ustekinumab early response was a significant factor in maintaining a stable complete or nearly complete clearance. The authors contend that rapid response is a clinically relevant factor to consider when individualizing treatment.
Pharmacy Times included a 2021 JDD study in its article, “Ceramides Help Prevent and Treat Dermatological Conditions.” In the study, “Evidence of Barrier Deficiency in Rosacea and the Importance of Integrating OTC Skincare Products into Treatment Regimens,” by Hilary Baldwin, MD, and colleagues, researchers conducted a survey of dermatologists and a literature review, and then discussed the results in an online meeting. The panel concluded that barrier restoring ingredients such as ceramides, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide were beneficial. The expert panel recommends these products before and during prescription therapy and as part of a maintenance regimen.
HealthDay along with several other publications wrote about the January study, “Consumer Perspectives on and Utilization of Medical Cannabis to Treat Dermatologic Conditions.” The article, “CBD and Cannabis Products for Acne, Psoriasis? Buyer Beware, Dermatologists Say”, focused on the survey results that showed almost 18% of respondents used an over-the-counter (OTC) cannabis product without dermatologist recommendation to treat a skin condition. Researchers from the George Washington School of Medicine and Health Sciences and the University of Maryland conducted the survey, which also found 89% of respondents supported the use of medical cannabis for dermatologic use. Study authors noted that more research is needed to determine the impact of medical cannabis products on inflammatory skin conditions.
