Structural drugs have a few different effects on the immune system. In the same way that dexamethasone and cyclosporine do to prevent infection, they may suppress the immune system. Alternately, they had regulate skin cell turnover level similarly to how acitretin functions. According to Dr. Colin Theng, president of PAS and dermatologist at The Skin Specialists & amp, Laser Clinic, these three oral medications are frequently prescribed in Singapore.
A fourth oral medication, apremilast, was approved for use in Singapore by the Health Sciences Authority( HSA ) in December, according to Dr. Theng. It functions by inhibiting the immune system’s and skin cells’ phosphodiesterase 4 or PDE4 protein, which promotes body plaque growth.
Widespread medications do have their disadvantages despite their performance. There is a higher chance of serious side effects because they affect the entire system. Therefore, while receiving care with these medications, laboratory tests and blood monitoring are necessary, according to Dr. Hazel Oon, director of the Psoriasis Unit and consultant-in-charge at the Acne Clinic, National Skin Center.
For instance, methotrexate prevents joint inflammation that leads to rheumatoid joint damage and relieves skin psoriasis. For those with psoriatic arthritis, it sounds like a two-in-one heaven take.
Methotrexate, however, can even” affect the functioning of the kidney and increase the likelihood of severe liver disease” and result in miscarriages and severe birth defects while pregnant, according to dermatologist Dr. Eileen Tan of Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital.
According to Dr. Tan, people who have taken dexamethasone are strongly advised not to become pregnant six months after stopping it due to its long-lasting side effects.