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Real members of MyPsoriasisTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Combo Therapy : Talz + Acitretin

A MyPsoriasisTeam Member asked a question 💭
Melbourne, FL

Greetings to all
I am dealing with psoriasis in my fingers and nails. At times a painful aggravating and embarrassing situation. Tried streroid creams and been on Talz for a while with not much improvement. My doctor recommending now that i take Acitretin with Talz as a combo therapy. I know acitretin has side effects on liver and could raise cholesterol and triglyceride levels (which i am trying to control with Statin-Cholseterol and LDL- under control)
I have few questions to the community… read more

June 6
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A MyPsoriasisTeam Member

I was originally diagnosed by a dermatologist with dermatitis/eczema for 2 years, was on Dupixent for a year, then got a patch test which resulted in nothing, have been on about 10 different creams none of which worked. Very painful, cracking fissures bleeds, dry itchy annoying as all get out. After patch test then they say well I think you have psoriasis, putting nails finger tips palms, quit Dupixent am on Vtama now helping more than anything else and Clobetasol. I feel at my wits end and now do not trust anything they tell me, I don't know where to turn anymore. It's so painful and very difficult to do things with hands, hot water really hurts, doing dishes or anything hard on your hands. I wish I had something better to say to help

July 6
A MyPsoriasisTeam Member

I’m sorry to hear that you are going through similar thing. It’s terrible and frustrating. See if your doctor will try Talz. your immune system may respond to it better than mine did. I try to keep them moist with Cerave cream and wear nitrile gloves and cotton gloves.
How long did you try a Vtama and saw results ? How often do you apply it ? Twice a day ? Do you wear gloves over it ? Clobetasol is helping you ? Twice a day for two weeks than you take a break off of it?
Thanks for your response and I wish you all the best.

July 6
A MyPsoriasisTeam Member

Hi, I’m really sorry you’re dealing with this. I understand how difficult and uncomfortable psoriasis on the fingers and nails can be.
I’ve seen a few similar cases where people shared their experiences with treatments like acitretin and biologics, and comparing side effects and results was really helpful.
If you’re comfortable, it might be easier to continue the conversation on WhatsApp or Telegram so we can talk more easily and share experiences in more detail.

June 8
MyPsoriasisTeam

What are the experiences and side effects of combining Taltz with Acitretin for nail and finger psoriasis?

Nail and finger psoriasis can be particularly stubborn — so it's completely understandable that your doctor is exploring a combination approach. Combining a biologic like Taltz with acitretin is a recognized strategy Show Full Answer

What are the experiences and side effects of combining Taltz with Acitretin for nail and finger psoriasis?

Nail and finger psoriasis can be particularly stubborn — so it's completely understandable that your doctor is exploring a combination approach. Combining a biologic like Taltz with acitretin is a recognized strategy when individual treatments aren't delivering enough relief.

Acitretin is known to work well alongside biologics, and the combination can sometimes improve results that neither treatment achieves alone. Regarding your concern about triglycerides and cholesterol, you're right to flag this. Acitretin can raise triglyceride levels, which is worth monitoring closely given your current statin use. Your doctor will likely want to run blood work before and during treatment to keep an eye on these levels.

Some key side effects of acitretin to be aware of include:

- Dry skin and chapped lips
- Increased sensitivity to sunlight
- Hair thinning
- Muscle and joint soreness
- Headaches
- Potential impact on liver function One important thing to note — acitretin stays in the body for a long time after stopping. Blood donation should be avoided during treatment and for at least three years after.

Also, acitretin can take time to work. Some people don't see major improvement until around six months in, so patience is key. Symptoms can sometimes look worse before they improve.

Since you're already managing cholesterol and triglycerides, make sure your doctor has the full picture before starting — which it sounds like you're already doing. That's exactly the right approach! Members of MyPsoriasisTeam have shared their own experiences with combination therapies and side effects in the community — it's worth browsing those conversations for personal insights from people who've been in a similar situation.

Wishing you clearer skin and less discomfort ahead! 🤞

June 6

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