skin

What is methoxsalen? How does it work (mechanism of action)? Methoxsalen is a naturally occurring photoactive chemical found in the seeds of the Ammi majus (Umbelliferae) plant and in the roots of Heraclem candicans. It belongs to a group of compounds known as psoralens, or furocoumarins. It is used for treating psoriasis, idiopathic vitiligo (leucoderma) …

What is thalidomide, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Thalidomide is an oral medication used for treating the skin conditions of leprosy, a disease caused by a parasite, Mycobacterium leprae. The mechanism of action of thalidomide is not well understood. The immune system reaction to Mycobacterium leprae plays an important role in producaing the skin manifestations of leprosy. …

What is clotrimazole and betamethasone (Lotrisone)? Lotrisone is a cream or lotion consisting of a combination of the drugs clotrimazole and betamethasone. Clotrimazole is an antifungal drug related to: fluconazole (Diflucan) ketoconazole (Nizoral) itraconazole (Sporanox) miconazole (Micatin, Monistat) Betamethasone is a corticosteroid used for the relief of inflammatory and itchy skin conditions in patients 13 years of age or older. …

What is alefacept, and what is it used for? Alefacept is an injectable drug that suppresses the immune system and is used for the treatment of psoriasis. Scientists believe that psoriasis is caused by an increase in the production of one type of immune cell, T-lymphocytes, in response to the attachment of a stimulant (antigen) to the lymphocyte. The stimulated …

Facts you should know about postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) PHN is a painful complication that occurs after a shingles infection. PHN is caused by viral damage to nerve cells. PHN is diagnosed by the patient's history and physical exam. Treatment often requires more than one agent to reduce pain. PHN may last one to two months, but some patients have PHN …

What is collagenase clostridium histolyticum, and what is it used for? Xiaflex is an injectable formulation of purified collagenase derived from the bacterium, clostridium histolyticum. It is used for treating Dupuytren’s contracture. A Dupuytren’s contraction is caused by an abnormal accumulation of collagen (scar) in the tissue beneath the skin of the palm of the hand. The collagen binds the …

What are topical corticosteroids? Corticosteroid hormones are naturally occurring hormones produced by the adrenal glands within the body. Topical corticosteroids are synthetic (man-made) corticosteroid medications used for treating skin conditions such as rash, dermatitis, itching, eczema, and psoriasis. Topical corticosteroids have potent anti-inflammatory actions and also suppress the immune response. Topical corticosteroids are used based on their potency, the area …

Sun-sensitizing drugs (photosensitivity) definition and facts Many common medications cause photosensitivity in some people when exposed to sunlight. Sun-sensitive or photosensitive drugs are drugs that cause a moderate to severe skin reaction that is similar to a bad sunburn when exposed to the sun (UV rays), usually the forehead, nose, hands, arms, and lips. Many common medications cause this reaction …

Sunburn and sun poisoning definition and facts Readers Comments 5 Share Your Story Picture of acute sunburn Sunburn is an inflammation of the skin caused by overexposure to UV radiation from the sun. UV radiation damages the skin the eyes. Immediate symptoms of a sunburn are hot, red, tender skin; pain when the skin is touched or rubbed; and dehydration. …

What is erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Benzamycin is a combination of erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide and is used for the topical treatment of acne (pimples). Erythromycin is an antibiotic. The exact mechanism by which topical erythromycin reduces pimples is unknown. Erythromycin probably reduces pimples by penetrating into the skin and killing bacteria …