Comparative assessment of the efficacy of topical 1% methotrexate gel to methotrexate iontophoresis in subjects with palmoplantar psoriasis

Abstract

Lahiri AK et al. International Research Journal of Pharmacy. 2017;8:3:38-42.
38
Research Article
Comparative assessment of the efficacy of topical 1% methotrexate gel to methotrexate
iontophoresis in subjects with palmoplantar psoriasis
Dr. Anup Kumar Lahiri
Assistant Professor, Department of Dermatology, Icare Institute of Medical Sciences and Research & Dr. Bidhan Chandra
Roy Hospital, Haldia, West Bengal
Email id: lahiry3@gmail.com
How to cite: Lahiri AK. Evaluation of the effectiveness of topical 1% methotrexate gel versus methotrexate iontophoresis in individuals with
palmoplantar psoriasis in comparison. International Research Journal of Pharmacy. 2017;8:3:38-42.
Doi:10.7897/2230-8407.080333
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ABSTRACT
Background: Systemic medication, mostly methotrexate, is recommended for palmoplantar psoriasis, a condition that results
in deformity and impairment and is resistant to traditional treatment. Topical methotrexate administration techniques have
been attempted to combat systemic toxicity, however the outcomes have been disappointing. Its effectiveness and absorption
can be improved using iontophoresis. However, there is a lack of data in the literature.
Aim: The objective is to evaluate the effectiveness of topical 1% methotrexate gel in comparison to methotrexate
iontophoresis in individuals with palmoplantar psoriasis.
Methods: 120 participants were randomly assigned to one of two groups of 60 participants each. Group I participants received
1% topical methotrexate gel twice a day for eight weeks, every day of the week. For four weeks and then every two weeks
after that, Group II individuals received methotrexate iontophoresis once a week. There were six iontophoresis sessions. For
three months, both groups were monitored. During every visit and follow-up, the effectiveness of the treatment was evaluated
by looking for signs of fissuring, scaling, or edema in the lesion.
Results: The study's findings indicated that both Groups I and II had improved overall. Subjects from Groups I and II showed
improvements in 82.4% and 95.3% of cases, respectively. In terms of recurrence rates, both Groups I and II had rates that
were quite similar.
Conclusion: The current study reveals that, after 8 weeks of therapy, participants receiving methotrexate iontophoresis for
palmoplantar psoriasis show significantly higher clearance rates and improvements than those receiving 1% methotrexate gel.