Here is the Daily Mail article...
Spray-on foam that eases psoriasis
From Daily Mail - 21/10/2003 (350 words)
PAT HAGAN
A SPRAY-ON foam that is rapidly absorbed by the skin could offer hope to the thousands who suffer from psoriasis. Although it resembles shaving foam, the mixture contains powerful drugs called corticosteroids.
Experts who developed the foam, called OLUX, claim it is a breakthrough because it can be absorbed more easily than ointments or creams. The Medicines & Healthcare Products And Regulatory Agency - which vets new drugs - has given the go-ahead for the foam to be prescribed in Britain.
Psoriasis affects one in 50 people. It is thought to be caused by a malfunctioning of the immune system, which causes accelerated growth of skin cells. Because the body cannot shed them fast enough, these pile up on the surface of the skin . The result is unsightly patches of raised red skin covered by a flaky white build-up.
Although rarely life-threatening, severe psoriasis can cause psychological damage because of the effect the disfigurement has on a sufferer's life.
GPs and dermatologists use a range of treatments, from creams to potent steroid drugs, but one of the challenges has been finding the most effective way to get as much of the drug as possible to the affected area.
Steroids that are swallowed have to work their way through the gut and the bloodstream before locating the damaged skin. With the foam, more of the drug is hitting the right area.
OLUX, which contains a steroid drug called clobetasol propionate, comes in a spray can.
A small dollop of foam is squirted into the cap, or on to a cool surface, and rubbed on to the skin with the fingers. Patients must make sure their hands are cold or it will melt before it has a chance to be applied.
In trials, it relieved the itching and dryness suffered by psoriasis sufferers within days.
The drug is licensed for use on the scalp, legs, arms and trunk. But doctors advise against using it on the face or for children under 12.
Tests showed it has few side-effects.
