Calcipotriene Betamethasone Dipropionate Aerosol Foam in the Treatment of Plaque Psoriasis: A Review of the Literature

Abstract

Psoriasis is a common chronic immune-mediated skin disease which has a significant impact on patients' quality of life, and is associated with numerous comorbidities (i.e., psoriatic arthritis, Crohn's disease and cardiovascular disease). A greater understanding of its immunopathogenesis has guided the development of novel, more targeted therapies. Nonetheless, traditional treatment with topical agents, phototherapy and systemic medications is used in the management of the majority of psoriasis patients. Mainstay topical treatments include corticosteroids and vitamin D derivatives. Calcipotriene/betamethasone dipropionate aerosol foam is a novel single product combination, which seeks to provide superior therapeutic efficacy in addition to enhanced cosmetic properties. This article reviews the literature on the pharmacology and clinical data in terms of safety, efficacy and patient satisfaction of this topical medication.

Preparation of Calcipotriol Emulsion Using Bacterial Exopolysaccharides as Emulsifier for Percutaneous Treatment of Psoriasis Vulgaris

“…The above data indicate that the treatment effect of the EPS/CPT emulsion group is more effective. Healthy control 0 ± 0.00 0 ± 0.00 0 ± 0.00 0 ± 0.00 0 ± 0.00 0 ± 0.00 0 ± 0.00 Model Group 4.00 ± 0.00 4.00 ± 0.00 4.00 ± 0.00 3.33 ± 0.47 3.17 ± 0.37 3.00 ± 0.00 3.00 ± 0.00 EPS/CPT emulsion 3…”

“…It is a synthetic derivative of calcitriol, the active form of vitamin D, which can specifically bind to the vitamin D receptor to exert a gene regulatory effect leading to the attenuation of the abnormal proliferation and differentiation of KCs. Additionally, CPT inhibits the inflammatory response and reduces the number of T cells in psoriatic lesions [3]. Currently, there are mainly external dosage forms, such as creams and tinctures, which are low cost and convenient to use.…”

A novel vehicle for the treatment of psoriasis

“…It is in fact believed that calcipotriol is able to counteract the atrogenic effect of the corticosteroid through a mechanism of modulation of the extracellular matrix (Norsgaard et al, ). More and more recent studies are aimed at improving the penetration of the molecules contained in the foam, favoring effectiveness and reducing health care expense (Frieder, Kivelevitch, & Menter, ). In our study, the treatment was successful in all patients (100%) by Week 4, with a substantial reduction in signs (infiltration, erythema, and desquamation) and symptoms (itching, dryness, burning, and pain) of PsO with an important improvement of the quality of life.…”

Calcipotriene/betamethasone dipropionate for the treatment of psoriasis vulgaris: an evidence-based review

“…Recent studies have started investigating formulations such as the supersaturated alcohol-free aerosol foam, with a focus on optimizing the different calcipotriene/betamethasone dipropionate formulations. 51 – 53 Optimization of formulations, in order to maximize penetration and onset of action, for example, may further reduce health care expense and improve overall efficacy.…”