Acitretin (Soriatane) is the only systemic retinoid approved for the treatment of psoriasis. Unlike all other anti-psoriasis systemic agents, acitretin is the only clinically nonimmunosuppressive systemic medication that works primarily by enhancing differentiation and maturation of cells. More than any other systemic agents, acitretin is used in combination with other agents. Combination therapy provides effective treatment while allowing lower doses of individual medications and decreasing the occurrence of side effects. This article reviews the available literature on combination therapy with acitretin and provides an update for combined use of acitretin with topical agents, other systemic medications, and phototherapy.
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