Soriatane
What is Soriatane?
Soriatane is an oral retinoid, which is a synthetic form of vitamin A. Synthetic retinoids were introduced as experimental drugs in the mid-1970s and were approved in the United States in the 1980s. Soriatane is the only oral retinoid approved by the FDA specifically for treating psoriasis. Accutane is another oral retinoid that is sometimes used as an alternative to Soriatane in treating psoriasis.
How does Soriatane work?
The precise mechanism of how Soriatane works to control psoriasis is unknown. In general, retinoids affect how cells regulate their behavior. Retinoids help control how cells multiply, including how fast skin cells will grow and shed from the skin's surface.
Who is a candidate for Soriatane?
Soriatane is indicated for use in adults with severe psoriasis. The Soriatane label supports the use of the drug for plaque, guttate, pustular, erythrodermic and palmoplantar psoriasis.
Because of the risk of birth defects (see side effects, below, to learn more), women of childbearing potential must have two negative pregnancy tests before starting Soriatane treatment. They must use two effective forms of birth control while on the drug and for three years after stopping treatment.
People who take Soriatane should not donate blood during treatment and for a period of time afterward. Donated blood could expose pregnant women to Soriatane.
For more information, see conception, pregnancy and psoriasis.
How effective is Soriatane?
Soriatane tends to work slowly for plaque psoriasis. After eight to 16 weeks of treatment, the skin lesions usually will improve, but it may take up to six months for the drug to reach its peak effect.
How is Soriatane used?
Soriatane comes in 10 mg and 25 mg capsules. The prescribed dose is taken once a day, and pills should be taken with food. The dosage is determined for each individual based on several factors, including the type of psoriasis present.
Doses may be reduced after symptoms begin to improve, depending on the patient's response. Ordinarily, retinoid treatment is stopped when lesions have cleared significantly. When lesions or other symptoms reappear, the drug may be administered again.
Rotational therapy
Soriatane may also be prescribed in rotation with other systemic medications, such as cyclosporine or methotrexate.
Combination therapy
Soriatane is most effective for treating psoriasis when it is used with phototherapy, rather than by itself. Combination therapy can speed clearing and help reduce the amount of phototherapy needed to clear symptoms, thereby reducing risks and side effects.
A 2002 clinical trial demonstrated that Dovonex ointment in combination with Soriatane was safe and effective for the treatment of severe or extensive psoriasis.
What are the possible side effects of Soriatane?
The most serious side effect of Soriatane is the risk of birth defects in developing fetuses if the mother is using the drug.
Other common side effects include:
- Hair loss
- Chapped lips
- Dry skin
- Bleeding gums
- Peeling fingertips
- Changes in blood fat levels
- Depression
- Headache
- Joint pain
These side effects, and others, seem to be dose-dependent (they go away after stopping the medication or lowering the dosage).
Interactions
The doctor prescribing Soriatane should always be aware of any other medications, therapies or supplements you are using.
Women who use Soriatane must not drink alcohol during treatment and for two months after treatment is discontinued. Alcohol can cause Soriatane to convert to a form that may remain in the body indefinitely, increasing the risk of birth defects if the woman were to become pregnant.
Updated January 2007
|
