Treatments for scalp psoriasis with emphasis on calcipotriol plus betamethasone dipropionate gel (Xamiol).

Scalp psoriasis occurs in 50%-75% of patients with plaque psoriasis. It may be the only area of the body affected, or it may be associated with disease elsewhere, including psoriatic arthritis. Most cases are treated topically, usually with steroids and/or calcipotriol. In 2008, Health Canada and the US FDA approved a stable, once-daily 2-compound gel containing calcipotriol and betamethasone dipropionate (Xamiol, LEO Pharma; Taclonex Scalp, Warner Chilcott). This once-daily therapy improves patient quality of life with a quick onset of action and greater efficacy than monotherapy with either ingredient or twice daily treatment with calcipotriol 0.005% (Dovonex, LEO Pharma) scalp solution. The gel vehicle was developed for ease of use, improved cosmetic acceptability and absorption on the scalp. By 2 weeks, approximately 60%, and by 8 weeks, approximately 70% of patients have controlled disease (i.e., absent or very mild disease). At 8 weeks, the calcipotriol and betamethasone dipropionate gel formulation has a safety profile comparable with betamethasone dipropionate and is associated with significantly fewer adverse events than calcipotriol. Xamiol may be safely used for up to 52 weeks. No cases of atrophy, striae, or steroid purpura were noted in two 52-week studies.