Drugs & Medications
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Finding the perfect treatment for any skin condition can be daunting, so it is essential to rely on the expertise of a qualified dermatologist. At The Harley Street Dermatology Clinic, our team of Consultant Dermatologists are highly knowledgeable about the various drugs and oral medications available to address skin health concerns.
During your consultation, you will receive a precise diagnosis and valuable guidance regarding your condition’s most effective treatment options. From antibiotics and antivirals to antifungal medications, our medical professionals will provide the most suitable medicine to achieve optimal results.
Topical Creams and Lotions
Antibacterials
Antibacterial medications play a crucial role in preserving healthy skin. Available in both oral and topical forms, these powerful medicines effectively treat various conditions, from minor cuts to severe and persistent infections like Acne. Flucloxacillin, erythromycin, and tetracycline are commonly used treatments that have shown proven efficacy in alleviating symptoms and optimizing overall skin health. When combined with proper hygiene practices, these medications are essential for safeguarding our skin against harm.
Antifungal agents
Fungal infections such as ringworm and athlete’s foot can be uncomfortable and often require a proactive treatment approach. Luckily, there are antifungal agents that can effectively eliminate these problems. In more severe cases of toenail infection, oral medications like Terbinafine or Itraconazole may be recommended to alleviate symptoms and eradicate the infection. By using these medications appropriately and practising good hygiene, fungal infections can be prevented from occurring in the first place.
Benzoyl peroxide
Are you tired of dealing with embarrassing and uncomfortable acne breakouts? Well, there’s good news: Benzoyl Peroxide is here to help. This powerful antiseptic is widely regarded as one of the top treatments for mild to moderate acne. Whether you prefer a lotion, wash, foam, or gel, benzoyl peroxide targets and reduces bacteria on your skin, allowing it to heal. In fact, it’s often the go-to choice recommended by doctors for tackling this common skin condition.
Coal Tar
Coal Tar has long been trusted to treat common skin conditions such as Seborrheic Dermatitis and Psoriasis. With a range of strengths from 0.5% to 5%, applying coal tar is simple and requires minimal effort. It offers substantial relief and visibly enhances skin without causing significant side effects.
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids offer valuable treatment options for various skin conditions associated with autoimmune diseases and inflammation. Available in diverse forms like foams, lotions, ointments, and creams, there is a suitable option for every patient. With four different strengths, ranging from mild to moderate, individuals can customize their treatment plan to address their specific needs and concerns while minimizing the chances of severe side effects.
Non-steroidal ointment
Discover the power of non-steroidal ointments and creams to effectively treat eczema, psoriasis, and other inflammatory skin conditions. With a simple application to the affected area, experience rapid relief from itching, redness, and discomfort. But that’s not all – these treatments do more than soothe symptoms. They actively reduce inflammation, helping to prevent future flare-ups and promote long-term skin health. Embrace this safe and natural solution for a healthier, happier you.
Retinoids
Discover the remarkable capabilities of Retinoids derived from Vitamin A. These potent active ingredients effectively combat many skin conditions, such as acne, inflammation, cancer, and premature skin ageing. The best part? They are conveniently available as gels and creams, simplifying application with minimal effort. Embrace the transformative potential of retinoids for radiant, healthy skin.
Salicylic acid
Salicylic Acid is highly effective at treating common skin problems such as acne and warts, as it can reduce the thickness of the affected areas. It can be conveniently found in various forms, including lotions, gels, soaps, shampoos, and patches, giving individuals the freedom to select the option that provides the best results.
Oral And Injection Medications
Antibiotics
Discover the power of antibiotics in the battle against skin issues. With a variety of options available, you can effectively treat bacterial infections and alleviate symptoms. Commonly prescribed antibiotics such as Dicloxacillin, Erythromycin, and Tetracycline have proven successful in reducing skin disease symptoms.
Antifungal Agents
Oral antifungal medications like Terbinafine and Itraconazole are highly effective in treating common fungal infections. These infections, known as dermatophyte infections, include ringworm, athlete’s foot, fungal nail infection, vaginal thrush, and dandruff. Consistent use of antifungal drugs leads to a reduction in symptom severity and optimal management of the condition. Before initiating any treatment plan, patients must consult their Dermatologists about medication regimens and potential risks.
Antiviral agents
Antiviral agents are now the preferred treatment option in dermatology for skin conditions caused by herpes and shingles. Well-known antivirals such as Acyclovir, Aciclovir, and Valaciclovir are available in various forms, including creams, tablets, and intravenous administration. This ensures that relief from symptoms is easily accessible for those affected by oral/genital herpes (commonly known as “cold sores”) or Zoster (commonly known as “shingles”). When used together, these medications provide a powerful and safe solution to alleviate symptoms caused by these two common viruses.
Oral Corticosteroids
Oral corticosteroids are a potent treatment option for managing flare-ups caused by autoimmune skin conditions and inflammation. While dermatologists typically prescribe topical steroids as a first-line treatment due to their lower risk of side effects, oral corticosteroids can also be highly effective in treating severe flare-ups that don’t respond to topical treatments. These medications work quickly to reduce inflammation and alleviate associated discomfort or rash. However, it’s crucial to note that this intensive treatment should always be taken under the guidance of a healthcare professional for safe and optimal use.
Immunosuppressants
Immunosuppressant drugs are frequently used to treat severe autoimmune diseases, including psoriasis, eczema, and alopecia areata. They can also be beneficial in managing inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s and Ulcerative Colitis, Lupus, Multiple Sclerosis, Psoriatic Arthritis, and Rheumatoid Arthritis. Among dermatologists, Azathioprine is the most commonly prescribed immunosuppressant drug for chronic dermatitides and bullous disorders because of its relatively low-risk profile.
Biologics
Biologics are a new treatment for inflammatory skin conditions. By directly addressing the root cause – the overactivity of the immune system – these unique treatments effectively combat inflammation, significantly reducing symptoms. Experience the invaluable relief that biologics can provide, ultimately improving the well-being of individuals who endure skin conditions and positively impacting their physical and mental health.
Enzyme inhibitors
Enzyme inhibitors are crucial in boosting our immune systems. By targeting and inhibiting specific enzymes, these potent molecules effectively reduce inflammation, which promotes the body’s healing and restoration process.
Medication Side Effects
Ensuring effective communication with your Dermatologist is vital. It’s essential to provide them with a comprehensive list of all medications you’re currently using, regardless of whether they were prescribed by a doctor or bought over the counter. These non-dermatological drugs can often have adverse effects on your skin and interfere with the efficacy of your treatments. At our practice, we go the extra mile by offering a customised Pharmacogenomic (PGx) Test. This test will analyse your genetics and determine the most suitable medication for you. With detailed results from a simple saliva test, we can tailor a personalised treatment plan and prescribe the most effective drugs for your needs.
What is Pharmacogenomics (PGx)?
Pharmacogenomics (PGx) is a rapidly advancing field that has the potential to revolutionise healthcare. By analyzing an individual’s genetic profile, PGx allows healthcare professionals to predict drug response and minimise the risk of adverse drug reactions. This leads to safer and more effective medication prescriptions.
In addition, PGx offers the exciting opportunity to identify individuals at higher risk for certain diseases based on their genetic predisposition. This knowledge enables early diagnosis and personalised treatment plans. As PGx gains momentum in the medical field, it is poised to become an essential tool in clinical decision-making shortly.
The Mantara PGx DNA Test And report
Experience better patient outcomes in the UK with the Mantara PGx genetic test – a reliable solution that has been CE and UKCA marked. Backed by the UPGx-facilitated PREPARE study, this test has shown a potential 30% reduction in adverse drug reactions, making it a trusted standard among practitioners. It only considers the most relevant data from the largest global study on PGx, adding an extra layer of credibility.
Mantara offers healthcare professionals and patients a trustworthy source for improved patient outcomes. With accurate result interpretation and comprehensive research, each patient receives a well-informed report.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How does PGx improve health care?
PGx is based on the understanding that variations in our genetic makeup can influence how we respond to certain medications. By having your individual genetic information available, dermatologists can identify these differences and tailor treatment plans to be more effective for specific individuals.
As this field continues to advance, healthcare providers are better able to prescribe medicines that will maximise both safety and efficacy; elevating overall standards of healthcare.
Who would benefit most from PGx Testing?
PGx testing can provide important insight into a person’s genetic makeup, and be beneficial for many patients. For instance, individuals who are concerned about developing side effects from their medications or have experienced significant side effects in the past are excellent candidates for PGx testing.
Similarly, people with comorbid conditions (co-occurring disorders) who have complicated treatment plans may benefit from understanding more about their genes and how they interact with specific drugs. Additionally, lifestyle factors such as coffee consumption or tobacco smoking that can affect drug blood levels and tolerability can be uncovered through testing.
Finally, PGx testing is valuable to patients because their genes never change – providing thorough and up-to-date information on the individual.
CONDITIONS WE TREAT WITH DRUGS & MEDICATIONS:
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WHY CHOOSE The Harley Street CLINIC For Your Drugs And Medication?
Selecting the ideal drugs and medication to address any skin issue can be quite a challenging process for most people, which is why it is always recommended to seek the help of a qualified professional. Our team of Consultant Dermatologists at The Harley Street Dermatology Clinic possess a wealth of knowledge concerning the different drugs and oral medications available to treat a variety of skin concerns. With their experience and expertise, they can offer you the guidance and advice you need to get the best possible treatment for your skin.