RX Review: Integrating New Topicals Into Scalp Psoriasis Treatment Regimens - Episode 1
In this video, the first in a 6-part series, panelists discuss recent advancements in PsO management.
In this HCPLive RX Review Special Report, Mona Shahriari, MD, Associate Clinical Professor of Dermatology at Yale University, sits down with David Hartigan, a biologic coordinator with Biologic Coordinators of Dermatology, to explore practical challenges and treatment considerations in managing scalp plaque psoriasis (PsO). In this clip, the discussion centers on topical therapy concerns that frequently arise in clinical practice, particularly around coverage, formulation, and patient confidence in efficacy.
Hartigan highlights common patient apprehensions with topical treatments, especially regarding whether specific formulations—such as foam versus lotion or cream—are sufficient for scalp coverage and ease of use. He emphasizes that by the time many patients reach this stage in their treatment journey, they’ve often cycled through multiple therapies with limited success, leading to skepticism and adherence concerns. Hartigan underscores the importance of tailoring vehicle choice to the patient’s needs and surface area involved, while reassuring patients of the therapeutic options still available.
Shahriari reflects on the time constraints clinicians often face in practice and notes the value of care team collaboration in surfacing and addressing patient barriers. Together, they highlight the critical role of biologic coordinators in bridging communication between patients and prescribing clinicians in the management of chronic dermatologic conditions.
Editor's note: The FDA approved Arcutis Biotherapeutics's roflumilast under the name Zoryve as the first foam option available for scalp psoriasis in May 2025.
Part 2: Formulation Matters: Managing Scalp Psoriasis Across Hair Types
Part 3: The Role of Roflumilast in Long-Term Psoriasis Management
Part 4: Counseling Patients With Psoriasis on Roflumilast and Nonsteroidal Topicals
Part 5: Bridging and Enhancing Biologic Response With Targeted Topicals for Scalp Psoriasis
Part 6: Advocating for Patients: Securing Access to Nonsteroidal Topicals Like Roflumilast
Our Panelists:
Mona Shahriari, MD, is Assistant Clinical Professor of Dermatology at Yale University School of Medicine, the Associate Director of Clinical Trials at CCD Research and a senior editor for the Journal of Psoriasis and Psoriatic arthritis. She also hosts HCPLive's podcast, The Medical Sisterhood.
David Hartigan, is a biologic coordinator for Optima Dermatology and the Education Chair for Biologic Coordinators of Dermatology.
Relevant disclosures for Shahriari include AbbVie, Dermira, Cara, Dermavant, Novartis, Union, BMS, Leo, Eli Lilly, Sanofi, Regeneron, UCB, and others. Hartigan reports no relevant disclosures.
