Prescription Medications
For moderate or severe cases of scalp psoriasis, prescription medications may be needed. Topical corticosteroids, such as halobtasol, clobetasol, or betamethasone, are the most common option to relieve itching and inflammation. However, they should only be used in the short term. Vitamin A derivatives like anthralin and tazarotene can help slow the development of skin cells.
To treat the underlying cause of scalp psoriasis, your doctor may prescribe biologic and systemic drugs. These include secukinumab, adalimumab, or guselkumab. They work by inhibiting the activity of certain proteins associated with the condition. These medications can be infused intravenously or injected. Possible side effects may include flu-like symptoms and increased risk of infection. [8]
