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Blog | Alto Pharmacy

The thyroid may be small, but it plays a significant role in your overall health and wellness. This butterfly-shaped gland at the base of your throat produces and regulates hormones that influence your metabolism and energy level, cholesterol, heart rate, body temperature, and more.

How to Manage an Overactive Thyroid

Balanced thyroid hormones allow your body’s many systems to properly function, and issues with the thyroid can impact many aspects of your health. There are two main types of thyroid imbalances that may occur: hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism.

Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid produces too much thyroid hormone, accelerating the metabolism beyond normal.

Hypothyroidism occurs when an underactive thyroid leads to lower-than-normal levels of thyroid hormone.

Without treatment, both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can lead to more serious complications. Below, we explain how to manage these disorders and maintain a balanced thyroid.

Several conditions or health factors may lead to overproduction of thyroid hormone. Graves’ disease, an autoimmune disorder in which antibodies overly stimulate the thyroid, is the leading cause of hyperthyroidism, accounting for 85% of all cases.

The development of thyroid nodules, which are typically benign lumps or growths in the thyroid that produce more hormones than needed

Thyroiditis, or thyroid inflammation, which most commonly occurs after pregnancy due to an underlying autoimmune disease or unknown cause

Excess consumption of iodine — a mineral critical to the production of thyroid hormone — through diet or medications

There are also several known factors that may increase your risk of developing the condition, including:

Health conditions including pernicious anemia, type 1 diabetes, and primary adrenal insufficiency (also known as Addison’s disease)

Hyperthyroidism is associated with a wide range of signs and symptoms such as the following:

Unintentional weight loss even with increased food intake

Enlarged thyroid gland at the base of your neck

Symptoms of hyperthyroidism may be subtle for some individuals. In addition, many common symptoms overlap with those of other health conditions. If you have any concerns about your thyroid health, consult with your provider for an evaluation.

Hyperthyroidism is associated with irregular menstrual cycles, which can lead to difficulty conceiving. Many people initially learn of a hyperthyroidism diagnosis after experiencing fertility challenges. The treatment options described in more detail below can help restore hormone levels and ovulation.

The thyroid affects so many areas of your health and wellness, and untreated hypothyroidism can lead to other health issues such as the following.

An underactive thyroid can increase levels of LDL cholesterol, leading to a greater risk of heart disease and heart failure.

Hypothyroidism is also linked to depression.

An underactive thyroid can affect ovulation, or the release of a mature egg from the ovaries during a menstrual cycle. Treatment for hypothyroidism may address fertility issues by restoring hormone levels and ovulation.

In the long term, untreated hypothyroidism can damage the peripheral nerves, which carry information from your brain and spinal cord to other parts of your body. This can lead to pain, numbness, and tingling.

There are several ways to diagnose hyperthyroidism, including a physical exam, blood tests, and imaging tests.

Your healthcare provider may check your thyroid, eyes, heart, hands, and skin during a physical exam to confirm a diagnosis of hyperthyroidism.

Your provider may recommend thyroid function testing, which consists of measuring your thyroid hormone levels via blood samples. Hyperthyroidism is characterized by elevated levels of the thyroid hormones triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) and lower-than-normal levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).

Your provider may also use one or more imaging tests to more closely examine your thyroid, including a radioactive iodine uptake (RAIU) test, a thyroid scan, and a thyroid ultrasound.

There are a variety of treatment options for hyperthyroidism. Your provider will make individualized recommendations based on the cause of your hyperthyroidism and your overall health history.

The following types of medications are commonly used in the treatment of hyperthyroidism.

Anti-thyroid medications including methimazole (Tapazole®) and propylthiouracil (PTU) reduce symptoms by preventing over-production of thyroid hormones. These medications are typically taken for at least a year, though symptoms may improve within weeks or months.

Radioactive iodine is an oral medication that targets overactive thyroid cells, causing the thyroid to shrink and lowering hormone levels within a few weeks. This treatment approach permanently affects thyroid function, so symptoms of hyperthyroidism will not reappear. In most cases, the use of thyroid hormone medications is necessary after this treatment to maintain balanced hormone levels.

Beta blockers can control associated symptoms such as a rapid heartbeat, nervousness, or tremors. These medications cause the heart to beat more slowly and less forcefully. They will not change hormone levels and are typically used in tandem with anti-thyroid medications or radioactive iodine therapy. Commonly prescribed beta blockers include atenolol (Tenormin®), bisoprolol (Zebeta®), metoprolol tartrate (Lopressor®), metoprolol succinate (Toprol-XL®), acebutolol (Sectral®), and propranolol (Inderal®).

Some cases of hyperthyroidism require removal of part or all of the thyroid gland in a procedure known as a thyroidectomy. While this is effective at treating hyperthyroidism, it can result in hypothyroidism, which requires ongoing use of thyroid supplements.

Iodine consumption can contribute to the development of hyperthyroidism or worsen symptoms. Managing hyperthyroidism often includes monitoring iodine intake.

If your provider recommends following a low-iodine diet, try to avoid or limit your intake of seafood and seaweed, which have the highest iodine content of all foods. Other high-iodine foods to consume in moderation include milk and dairy products, egg yolk, and iodized salt.

Never make significant changes to your diet without first consulting your provider or a nutritionist.

The most common cause of hypothyroidism is an autoimmune disorder called Hashimoto's thyroiditis.

Other significant contributing factors include:

Thyroid surgery, which can affect hormone production

Radiation therapy to treat cancer, if targeting the head or neck

Anyone can develop hypothyroidism, but several known factors may increase your risk, including:

Sex - the condition occurs more frequently in women than in men

Age - the condition occurs more frequently in those over 60

Having another autoimmune disorder such as type 1 diabetes or celiac disease

Symptoms of hypothyroidism often develop gradually, over the course of many years. These are among the most common and significant:

If you have symptoms of hypothyroidism, your doctor will likely use a thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) test to confirm a diagnosis. This simple blood test measures the levels of thyroid hormones in your blood.

One challenge of diagnosing hypothyroidism is that symptoms frequently overlap with those of other health issues.

Hypothyroidism is manageable. Treatment allows you to control symptoms such as elevated LDL cholesterol levels and weight gain, preventing potential health complications.

The main goal of treatment is to increase your thyroid levels. Levothyroxine (Levo-T®, Synthroid®, Tirosint®), a synthetic thyroid hormone taken orally, is often the starting point.

Another synthetic thyroid hormone, liothyronine (Cytomel®), may also help treat low thyroid levels.

There are formulations that combine levothyroxine and liothyronine.

The majority of individuals with hypothyroidism need to take medication every day on an ongoing basis, though some mild cases are resolved with short-term treatment.

How to Manage an Overactive or Underactive Thyroid

Traveling during fertility treatment may feel overwhelming, but it’s definitely doable. While the fertility journey involves many moving parts, careful planning and coordination with your care team can help you take a trip without impacting your treatment. Use the suggestions below to prepare for your travels. 

A Guide to Traveling During Fertility Treatment

Advanced preparation is important when traveling with any medication. Given the complex and time-sensitive nature of fertility treatment, the planning process involves a few more steps.

First, consult your doctor about your plans and make sure your intended travel dates don’t conflict with your treatment. In vitro fertilization (IVF) requires very thorough travel planning, since it entails multiple in-person doctor’s appointments and a very carefully timed egg retrieval. Other treatments such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) may leave more room for flexibility.

Regardless of your specific treatment plan, make sure you are up to date on vaccines and be sure to monitor health-related travel alerts. The CDC advises that women who intend to conceive consult their physician before traveling to a destination with potential exposure to the Zika virus.

Lastly, make sure that you have more than enough of your fertility medication(s) and supplies on hand. Aim for several additional days’ worth. Needles used to inject medications require a prescription in some states, so bring extra to avoid unnecessary hassle.

If you are traveling near an Alto location, same-day delivery of fertility medications and supplies may be available.

Pack your medications and supplies in a carry-on

When traveling by plane, it’s always best to pack important medications and supplies in your carry-on rather than in a checked bag. Bring everything you need to safely administer your medications, including syringes, needles, alcohol swabs, hand sanitizer, gauze, and a sharps disposal container.

While the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA)’s current limit on liquids, gels, and creams in a carry-on is 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters), there are exceptions for medications. Bringing needles onto a plane is acceptable when accompanied by injectable medications.

Give yourself extra time to allow for additional screening of these items. The following tips may help you get through security as efficiently as possible.

Inform the TSA officer that you are carrying more than 3.4 ounces of liquid medication before your screening process begins, if applicable.

Bring a copy of your prescription(s) with you.

Keep all medications and supplies in their original packaging.

Put your medications and supplies in a separate, clear bag, as they will need to be separated from the rest of your belongings.

Store your medications at the appropriate temperature

Refrigeration is essential with many fertility medications. (At Alto, we ensure that medications are held at the right temperature before you receive them and guide you on safe at-home storage.)

Many people use frozen gel packs and insulated medication bags to store fertility medications at an appropriate temperature while traveling. (This approach is particularly useful for air travel.) As you finalize your travel plans, verify that your hotel or other accommodation offers access to a refrigerator or mini fridge.

Choose a flexible and reliable pharmacy partner

Fertility treatment can be stressful, let alone traveling during the process, but we’ll be with you every step of the way. We offer free, same-day delivery of medication and supplies right to your doorstep, and our dedicated fertility team is here to answer any questions you may have before your trip.

Interested in learning more about how Alto can support your fertility treatment? Request a price quote online or reach out through secure in-app messaging or by phone at 1-800-874-5881.

This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

If you’re managing a chronic health condition — or multiple conditions — you’re probably familiar with the hassle of filling multiple medications. Not only is it inconvenient to track different refill dates throughout any given month, it makes it much more difficult to prioritize your health, with the potential for missed doses.

To make it as convenient as possible to stay on track with treatment, Alto offers a free medication bundling service that lets you receive all your medications in a single, recurring delivery.

Medication Bundling: One Delivery for All Your Prescriptions

If you’re managing a chronic health condition — or multiple conditions — you’re probably familiar with the hassle of filling multiple medications. Not only is it inconvenient to track different refill dates throughout any given month, it makes it much more difficult to prioritize your health, with the potential for missed doses.

To make it as convenient as possible to stay on track with treatment, Alto offers a free medication bundling service that lets you receive all your medications in a single, recurring delivery.

Medication bundling builds on other tools in the Alto app like auto refills and medication reminders to take the hassle out of living your healthiest life. And like everything at Alto, it bridges innovation with industry-leading care to deliver an exceptional pharmacy experience that puts you first.

While some traditional retail pharmacies offer a similar service, they often require you to do the legwork of coordinating with your doctor and insurance. (Not to mention that there’s the additional inconvenience of traveling to the pharmacy and waiting in line.)

At Alto, it’s a whole lot simpler. The entire process takes place in the app, and if your medications are eligible*, we can organize your bundle within seconds.

We’ll get you started with synchronized refills and bundled deliveries in four simple steps.

1. If you have multiple prescriptions on file with Alto that qualify for bundling, you will be automatically prompted to bundle your medications when you log into the Alto app and we’ll sync your refills. (Have prescriptions at other pharmacies? Transfer them to Alto so we can add them to your refill schedule!)

2. We’ll ask you to confirm your medication list and current supply. Let us know if any of your medications are taken on an as-needed basis, or if any are urgently needed.

3. We’ll create a custom timeline for your synchronized refills. Depending on your insurance coverage, this may be once a month or up to every three months. If needed, we’ll schedule a partial fill upfront to avoid a delay in your treatment while we align your refills.

4. We’ll schedule all refills into a single delivery on your behalf and reach out on a recurring basis when your order is ready for delivery. As always, you’ll pick the delivery window that works best for your schedule.

Ready for one easy delivery? Transfer your prescriptions to Alto to start the medication bundling process today.

*Medication bundling is not available for some medications. In addition, some insurance plans may limit automatic refills.

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common form of arthritis that affects children and adolescents. Like adult rheumatoid arthritis (RA), JIA is characterized by pain and inflammation throughout the body as the result of joint inflammation and stiffness.

In contrast to the ongoing nature of RA, some children do outgrow JIA. However, it can impact a growing child’s bone development, so treatment is important.

What to Know About Arthritis in Children

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common form of arthritis that affects children and adolescents. Like adult rheumatoid arthritis (RA), JIA is characterized by pain and inflammation throughout the body as the result of joint inflammation and stiffness.

In contrast to the ongoing nature of RA, some children do outgrow JIA. However, it can impact a growing child’s bone development, so treatment is important.

Here’s what to know about the causes, symptoms, and treatment options of JIA.

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis affects children and adolescents age 16 and under. It may cause joint pain and inflammation anywhere in the body, but most commonly in the hands, knees, ankles, elbows, and wrists.

If untreated, JIA can lead to health complications, including:

Eye health issues such as cataracts or glaucoma, as JIA can cause inflammation in the eyes

More rarely, issues with the kidneys, heart, or endocrine system

The prognosis of JIA varies by individual. About 50% of children and adolescents with the condition fully recover while others continue to experience arthritis symptoms in adulthood. 

All forms of arthritis including JIA fall under the umbrella of autoimmune diseases. These conditions occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells and tissues. With arthritis, the immune system acts on the lining of your joints.

The causes of JIA aren’t fully known (idiopathic means unknown). Genetics likely play a component. Some evidence suggests that some children have a gene that leads to the development of JIA when activated by external factors such as a virus or bacteria.

Symptoms of juvenile idiopathic arthritis

Symptoms of JIA can vary from one child to another. Some individuals experience flare-ups, or periods when symptoms intensify, while others have a more chronic experience of the condition.

Pain and inflammation in the joints, most commonly in the hands, knees, ankles, elbows, and wrists. (For many, this symptom frequently occurs in the morning or after sleeping.)

The process of diagnosing JIA often involves several steps, as symptoms may resemble those of other conditions.

A physical exam is typically the starting point, after which a doctor may recommend one or more of the following blood tests to confirm a diagnosis of JIA: 

Antibody tests such as the antinuclear antibody (ANA) test, which measures blood levels of antibodies linked to rheumatic disease

Tests that check for levels of red and white blood cells and platelets - lower levels of red and white blood cells may be indicative of JIA

An erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) test, which examines how quickly your red blood cells sink to the bottom of a test tube - higher rates of settlement may indicate inflammation

A c-reactive protein (CRP) test, which identifies blood levels of CRP, an inflammation-linked protein produced in your liver

A creatinine test, which checks for kidney disease

A rheumatoid factor (RF) test, which checks for rheumatoid factor, an antibody found in about 80% of individuals with rheumatoid arthritis

Imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, and bone scans may also be used to support a JIA diagnosis.

Treatment for JIA encompasses medications, lifestyle changes, and physical and occupational therapy, with the goal of reducing symptoms and supporting an active life.

Individual treatment plans depend on a child’s symptoms, age, and overall health history.

The following types of medications may be included in a JIA treatment plan:

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) including ibuprofen (Advil®) and naproxen (Aleve®) may be used to reduce pain and inflammation during flare-ups. While these medications are available over the counter, your child may need a prescription for a higher dose.

Oral corticosteroids such as prednisone may also be used to reduce inflammation in children with JIA.

Disease-modifying antirheumatic medicines (DMARDs) such as methotrexate (Rheumatrex®) reduce the immune system’s response to triggers, easing inflammation and controlling JIA symptoms.

Injectable biologic DMARDs — which target more specific pathways in the immune system — are also used in the treatment of JIA, typically after other treatments have proven ineffective. Commonly prescribed biologics include abatacept (Orencia®), adalimumab (Humira®), canakinumab (Ilaris®), etanercept (Enbrel®) and tocilizumab (Actemra®).

Sugars, refined carbohydrates, and gluten can contribute to joint pain and inflammation, so it is often recommended for those with any type of arthritis to reduce their intake of these foods. With JIA, there is the additional consideration of incorporating nutrient-rich foods to support a child’s healthy growth and development. Consider speaking with a nutrition specialist to develop a balanced meal plan.

Regular physical activity is another component of managing JIA. Swimming and other water exercises, yoga, and cycling may be a good fit for children and adolescents with the condition. Physical therapy may be involved in treatment to help a child improve muscle and joint function. 

Lastly, it’s important for a child with JIA to get plenty of rest.

JIA is linked to eye inflammation, which can cause more serious eye problems later in life. Staying on track with regular eye exams can prevent and detect potential problems.

Life with juvenile idiopathic arthritis is easier with a reliable pharmacy partner by your side. Our pharmacists have specialized training in arthritis treatment and can answer any questions you may have, from medication side effects to navigating lifestyle changes.

In addition, we offer free, same-day delivery and medication management tools like reminders and auto refills in our app to make it as simple as possible to stay on track with your treatment.

To learn more, reach out any time through secure in-app messaging or by phone at 1-800-874-5881.

All third party trademarks (including logos and icons) referenced by Alto Pharmacy remain the property of their respective owners. Unless specifically identified as such, Alto’s use of third party trademarks does not indicate any relationship, sponsorship or endorsement between Alto and the owners of these trademarks.

An asthma attack is an acute flare-up of symptoms defined by sudden shortness of breath and difficulty breathing. Managing asthma attacks includes both proactively responding to symptoms when they arise and staying on track with treatment in the long term. Learn more here.

Treatment and Prevention of Asthma Attacks | Alto Pharmacy

Many individuals with asthma are familiar with the experience of an asthma attack — an acute flare-up of symptoms defined by sudden shortness of breath and difficulty breathing. These exacerbations vary in intensity and require efficient and prompt treatment.

Management of asthma attacks is twofold. To immediately address symptoms in the moment, work with your provider to identify your asthma attack warning signs and establish a treatment strategy. In the longer term, identify and avoid triggers and stay on track with treatment, so as to reduce the frequency and intensity of these flare-ups.

Here’s more on recognizing, treating, and preventing asthma attacks.

Effective management of an asthma attack starts by recognizing the signs and symptoms and understanding what to do when they occur.

While individual experiences of an asthma attack may vary, these are some common signs and symptoms. Your doctor can help you in identifying your individual warning signs of an asthma attack.

The following symptoms of a severe asthma attack warrant immediate medical attention:

Severe breathlessness or wheezing, especially at night or in the early morning

Difficulty speaking due to shortness of breath

No improvement from quick-relief medication

Everyone with asthma should have an asthma action plan that documents their treatment needs, including what steps to take when asthma symptoms intensify. Work with your doctor to create your individual asthma action plan.

If and when you experience a flare-up of asthma symptoms, follow the steps in your treatment plan. If your PEF readings fall between 51% to 79% of your baseline, a common first step is to take quick-relief or “rescue” asthma medications.

These medications are taken on an as-needed basis, as prescribed by your doctor, and relax airway muscles to open the lungs. They relieve shortness of breath and wheezing within minutes and can stop an asthma attack in progress.

Common quick-relief asthma medications include:

Albuterol (ProAir® HFA, Proventil® HFA, and Ventolin® HFA)

Inhalers are the most common form of quick-relief asthma medications. Albuterol and levalbuterol are also available as a liquid solution for nebulizer use.

A quick-relief medication may sufficiently relieve symptoms and improve PEF readings. If symptoms do not improve, emergency medical care may be necessary. Your asthma action plan should help you determine when to seek emergency care.

In many cases, asthma attacks may be preventable. When followed on an ongoing basis, the steps below can help lower your chances of experiencing an asthma attack.

1. Follow your treatment plan and take maintenance medications as prescribed (if applicable).

Many individuals with moderate to severe asthma take long-term maintenance medication in addition to a quick-relief medication.

These medications ease inflammation in the airways, preventing exacerbations and controlling symptoms. You must take them as prescribed every day to experience their benefits.

There are two main types of long-term asthma control medications:

Inhaled corticosteroids including Flovent® HFA and Qvar Redihaler® 

Combination inhalers that contain both corticosteroids and long-acting beta agonists (LABAs) including fluticasone and salmeterol (Advair Diskus®); budesonide and formoterol (Symbicort®); mometasone and formoterol (Dulera®); and fluticasone and vilanterol (Breo Ellipta®)

Asthma attacks may be caused by a variety of triggers including:

Each individual has different triggers. To identify yours, make a note of your asthma symptoms as they appear, including environmental factors that may have contributed to them. As you begin to learn your triggers, take necessary precautions to avoid them.

3. Avoid all cigarette smoke, including secondhand and thirdhand smoke.

Everyone with asthma can benefit from limiting their exposure to cigarette smoke, a frequent trigger of asthma attacks.

In addition to refraining from smoking yourself, avoid exposure to secondhand smoke and thirdhand smoke, the residual smoke that remains on clothing or surrounding indoor surfaces. (Don’t hesitate to ask your doctor for smoking cessation resources if needed.)

Allergic asthma accounts for 60% of all asthma cases in the U.S. and is triggered by allergens such as household dust mites, pet dander, and pollen. There are many ways to reduce the presence of allergens in your home, including:

Using the AC rather than opening windows when pollen counts are high

Using a dehumidifier to keep indoor air dry, which will in turn prevent mold growth and dust mites

Vacuuming at least once a week, ideally using a vacuum cleaner with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, which catches smaller particles like allergens

It’s especially important for those with asthma to stay current with vaccines, as respiratory infections like the flu can become more serious and/or trigger asthma symptoms.

Check with your doctor about which vaccines you need. For detailed vaccine recommendations by age group, reference the CDC’s recommended immunization schedules for children and adolescents and adults.

Alto Pharmacy is here every step of the way to help you manage your asthma. Our team of pharmacists is available to answer questions about your medications, and we offer free, same-day delivery and medication management tools like reminders and auto refills in our app.

Reach out by phone at 1-800-874-5881 or in-app messaging to learn how we can support your treatment plan.

Treatment and Prevention of Asthma Attacks

Psoriasis is a skin disorder that occurs when new skin cells grow too quickly as the result of immune-related inflammation. It is characterized by thick patches of skin covered with white or silver scales. There are a variety of treatment approaches that help slow down the growth of skin cells and treat symptoms.

Psoriasis, Explained

Here’s what to know about the condition’s causes, symptoms, and treatment options.

Your body typically produces new skin cells over the course of several weeks. For those with psoriasis, new skin cells are formed in days. The excess cells accumulate on the surface of the skin, leading to the development of thick, scaly patches in most psoriasis cases.

Psoriasis scales may develop anywhere on the body. Some people have just a few small flakes on their scalp or elbow while others have larger patches covering much of their skin.

Individuals of all ages, sexes, races, and ethnicities may develop psoriasis. In the U.S., roughly one-third of all psoriasis cases develop before the age of 20. It is a lifelong condition, with the exception of a type of psoriasis that resolves after childhood.

The specific causes of psoriasis aren’t fully understood, however, the immune system, genetics, and environmental factors likely all contribute to its development. If one parent has psoriasis, you are more likely to also develop the condition. If both parents have it, your risk increases further.

Smoking can increase both an individual’s risk of psoriasis and the severity of the condition.

Psoriasis is not contagious and cannot be passed from one person to another.

For most people with psoriasis, symptoms fluctuate over time. Symptoms may be severe for a few days or weeks before clearing up. Some people then go on to experience years without symptoms. The periodic flare-ups are typically triggered by environmental factors such as the following:

Infections including strep throat and skin infections

Weather, especially cold temperatures and dry air

Skin injuries including cuts, scrapes, bug bites, and sunburns

While symptoms of psoriasis can vary significantly from one individual to another, common symptoms include the following:

White or silver scales, also referred to as plaques, on the inflamed patches

Soreness, itching, or burning sensations on or near patches of irritated skin

A basic physical exam is often sufficient in diagnosing psoriasis, as symptoms are both visible and distinct from those of other conditions. 

In cases where a diagnosis is less clear, your doctor may order a biopsy, which is a small sample of your skin. Biopsies are typically performed in a doctor’s office with a local numbing agent.

Your provider may refer you to a dermatologist who specializes in the treatment of skin conditions.

While there is no cure for psoriasis, there are many treatments that lessen skin inflammation and scales, remove plaques, and slow down the turnover of skin cells. Your doctor will recommend the best approach for your needs and symptoms, typically starting with less invasive options. 

Topical treatments, or medications applied to the surface of skin, are typically the frontline treatment for psoriasis. They slow down skin cell growth and reduce inflammation. There are several types of topicals:

Corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory agents that reduce swelling and redness, and the most commonly prescribed medications for mild to moderate psoriasis. They are available in many forms, including oils, ointments, creams, lotions, gels, and more. Mild corticosteroid ointments like hydrocortisone are frequently used for sensitive areas while stronger creams and ointments like triamcinolone (Trianex®) and clobetasol (Cormax®, Temovate®) may be used for less sensitive areas or patches that don’t respond to hydrocortisone.

Non-steroid topicals including synthetic forms of vitamin D such as calcipotriene (Dovonex®, Sorilux®) and calcitriol (Vectical®) may be prescribed as an alternative to steroids. Like steroids, these treatments can help control plaques. They may cause less irritation than other treatments.

There are also over-the-counter topical treatments in the form of lotions, foams, tars, shampoos, and more. The active ingredients salicylic acid and coal tar are FDA-approved for psoriasis treatment. Always consult your doctor before beginning an over-the-counter treatment.

Light therapy is often a first line treatment for moderate or severe psoriasis, alone or in tandem with medications. In this treatment, the skin is exposed to controlled amounts of natural or artificial light. There are many types of light therapy, from simple exposure to sunlight to controlled doses of UVB broadband and UVB narrowband light and more. Your doctor can help you determine if these therapies are appropriate for you.

Blog

How to Manage an Overactive or Underactive Thyroid

A Guide to Traveling During Fertility Treatment

Medication Bundling: One Delivery for All Your Prescriptions

What to Know About Arthritis in Children

Treatment and Prevention of Asthma Attacks

Psoriasis, Explained

Meet the Innovation Team Building Alto's Next Big Bets

Endometriosis: A Leading and Treatable Cause of Female Infertility

Understanding the Diabetes-Heart Health Connection

Navigating a Diagnosis of Prediabetes

How to Improve Indoor Air Quality at Home

How Alto Lowers the Cost of Fertility Treatment Through Better Medication Management

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