Because cyclosporine is a potent immunosuppressant, a major application is in organ transplantation to prevent rejection of a transplanted organ by the body s immune system. In clinical studies, cyclosporine was found to be effective in treatment of psoriasis. Plaque psoriasis is treated effectively in many patients, and other forms are reported to respondto cyclosporine. Psoriasis of the nails and psoriatic arthritis have generally required longer-term cyclosporine therapy. A broad range of systemic side effects may involve the gastrointestinal system, kidneys, lungs, musculoskeletal system and reproductive system.
Regular monitoring is essential.
Cyclosporine is usually reserved for treatment of psoriasis that does not respond to other therapy. Drugs in Development . New immunomodulatory drugs are in development and testing stages, especially by the biotechnology industry. Please see the National Psoriasis Foundation for an update on drugs in development. A derivatives used in treatment of psoriasis.