Eczema and psoriasis are two of the most common chronic inflammatory skin conditions — around 10% of adults have eczema (atopic dermatitis) at some point in their lives, and 2–3% live with psoriasis. Both are relapsing conditions that respond to treatment but cannot be cured; the aim of therapy is reliable flare control with the lowest cumulative steroid or systemic exposure possible, combined with continuous emollient maintenance.
The dermatology treatment ladder on MedsBase covers every step of that plan. Mild topical corticosteroids for face, eyelids, and paediatric eczema — Desowen (desonide 0.05% lotion) from Galderma sits here. Potent topical corticosteroids for moderate-to-severe body-site flares — Betnovate Cream (betamethasone valerate 0.1%), the original GSK brand that defined the class, together with Flutivate Cream (fluticasone 0.05%). Super-potent (Class IV) steroids are reserved for short-course treatment of thick-plaque psoriasis and severe refractory eczema. Topical calcineurin inhibitors — Tacroz Forte Ointment (tacrolimus 0.1%) en Tacrovera Solution (tacrolimus 0.03%) — are the steroid-sparing maintenance agents for long-term facial and paediatric atopic dermatitis, with no cumulative skin-atrophy risk.
For severe psoriasis that has not responded to topical therapy and phototherapy, MedsBase stocks two oral systemic options. Aprezo (apremilast 30 mg) is an oral PDE4 inhibitor, a modern non-immunosuppressive alternative to methotrexate and biologics with a favourable tolerability profile. Acrotac (acitretin 10 / 25 mg) is a second-generation oral retinoid — first-line systemic for pustular and erythrodermic psoriasis, pityriasis rubra pilaris, and severe disorders of keratinisation; highly effective but with strict monitoring and pregnancy-prevention requirements (Category X for 3 years after discontinuation).
Eczema and psoriasis are chronic conditions — treatment is about control, not cure. Use topical corticosteroids for the shortest course that controls the flare, and transition to emollient maintenance and steroid-sparing agents for long-term control. If you are unsure which potency or treatment tier is appropriate, consult your doctor or dermatologist.