BULLETIN REVIEWS NEW TOPICAL PRODUCTS

Leo Laboratories' Dovonex (calcipotriol) represents an interesting and useful addition to the menu of treatments available for chronic plaque psoriasis, but more comparative studies are needed, according to the UK Consumers Association's Drug & Therapeutic Bulletin.

Before the launch of calcipotriol, plaque psoriasis was generally treated with topical preparations of dithranol, tar or corticosteroids, but each of these therapies have drawbacks. Dovonex has performed favorably in comparative studies with a 0.1% formulation of Glaxo's Betnovate (betamethasone) and 0.1% to 2.0% dithranol, notes the Bulletin, in terms of clearing and improving lesions.

On the negative side, however, the Bulletin points out that there are few data on the rate of relapse after treatment, and there are indications that continuous rather than intermittent use may be necessary.