Associate Professor, Department of Dermatology, PSP Medical College and hospitals, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

Associate Professor, Department of Dermatology, Narayana Medical College, Nellore, Andhra Pradesh, India
Immunomodulator Drugs, Dermatology Outpatient Department, Prescription Patterns, Autoimmune Skin Disorders. ,

This comprehensive overview of the prescription patterns of immunomodulator drugs in the dermatology outpatient department, specifically focusing on their usage in treating inflammatory and autoimmune dermatological conditions. The most prevalent conditions in the study were psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and vitiligo, with psoriasis being the most commonly treated. The study highlights the broad spectrum of immunomodulators utilized, including topical agents like tacrolimus and pimecrolimus, systemic immunosuppressants like methotrexate and azathioprine, and biologics such as infliximab and ustekinumab. It underscores the significance of these drugs in managing chronic and complex conditions, reflecting the evolving nature of dermatological treatments. The findings also emphasize the central role of corticosteroids in dermatology, despite the increasing availability of newer biologic agents. Betamethasone, hydrocortisone, and clobetasol propionate were the most frequently prescribed corticosteroids, indicating their enduring importance due to their effectiveness and lower cost compared to biologics. Biologics, while promising, remain less frequently prescribed due to high costs and the need for close monitoring, but their use is gradually increasing, particularly for severe psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis cases. In conclusion, this study reflects the ongoing adaptation in dermatology practice, balancing traditional therapies with emerging biologic treatments. It also highlights the need for personalized treatment strategies that account for disease severity, patient demographics, and cost considerations

14 , 1 , 2024