Transition of Topical Therapy Formulation in Psoriasis: Insights from a Canadian Practice Reflective

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Patient preferences for psoriasis treatment impact adherence and disease control.
• Topical formulation changes can enhance treatment acceptance and adherence.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate dermatologists' reasons for transitioning patients from calcipotriol and betamethasone dipropionate (Cal/BD) ointment/gel to an aerosol foam formulation.
• To assess the success of this formulation transition in Canadian psoriasis patients.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of medical records for 81 Canadian patients across 9 dermatologists.
• Evaluation of symptoms affecting quality of life, reasons for transition, and transition success.
• Analysis of psoriasis severity, body surface area affected, and itch-related symptoms.

Main Results:

• Transition from Cal/BD ointment/gel to aerosol foam was successful in 85% of patients.
• Significant decrease in psoriasis severity and body surface area affected post-transition.
• Improvement in quality of life, with 33% resolving and 54% improving itch and itch-related sleep loss.

Conclusions:

• Transition to Cal/BD aerosol foam is generally successful, improving patient quality of life and itch control.
• Dermatologist and patient-reported success, symptom clearance, and prescription refills indicate successful transitions.
• Formulation change is a viable strategy to enhance psoriasis management and patient adherence.