SAFETY CONCERNS IN PSORIASIS MANAGEMENT: ADVERSE EFFECTS OF SYSTEMIC TREATMENTS

Vismaya M. V.*, Dr. Sreejith K., Lubina Sahnas, Milin Thomas, Selma Thasni

Psoriasis is a persistent inflammatory skin condition that frequently necessitates systemic therapy in moderate to severe cases. The expanding range of systemic treatments—including conventional drugs like methotrexate and cyclosporine, targeted oral agents such as apremilast, and various biologic therapies—has brought increased attention to their potential adverse effects. This review offers a detailed examination of the major side effects linked to these treatments, covering systemic toxicities, increased susceptibility to infections, risks of malignancy, and immune-mediated complications. It also compares safety profiles across different drug classes and discusses patient-related risk factors and appropriate monitoring strategies. By providing a thorough overview of the adverse effect spectrum, this article aims to guide clinicians in selecting and managing systemic therapies for psoriasis with greater confidence and precision.