Roflumilast Foam Shows Promise in Treating Scalp and Body Psoriasis

New Foam Treatment Offers Rapid Relief for psoriasis sufferers, Trial shows

Washington D.C.- A novel foam formulation of roflumilast 0.3% is demonstrating significant improvements in patients battling psoriasis affecting both the scalp and body, according to data presented this week at the 2025 Society for Dermatologic Physician Assistants (SDPA) annual meeting. The ARRECTOR trial results reveal patients treated with the foam experienced markedly better outcomes across multiple measures of disease severity and quality of life compared to a vehicle control group.

The randomized, controlled study involved 432 participants with moderate-to-severe psoriasis – defined as an Investigator’s Global Assessment (IGA) score of 2 or 3, and a Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) score of ≥2. Participants were assigned in a 2:1 ratio to receive either the roflumilast foam or a placebo foam for eight weeks.

Researchers observed statistically significant improvements (P < .0001) in those receiving roflumilast foam across key indicators including: S-IGA Success: A measure of overall scalp psoriasis advancement.
B-IGA Success: A measure of overall body psoriasis improvement.
SI-NRS/WI-NRS 0/1: Scores reflecting minimal or no scalp and worst itch intensity.
PASI-75/100: Demonstrating substantial (75%) and complete (100%) clearing of psoriatic lesions.* Patient-Reported Outcomes (PROs): Indicating enhanced quality of life.

Notably, improvements in patient-reported scalp health, measured by the Scalpdex and PSD component scores, were evident as early as week two and continued throughout the eight-week trial. This rapid onset of action aligns with previous findings showing significant reductions in scalp itch within 24 hours of initial submission.

Safety Profile Confirmed

The study also confirmed a favorable safety profile for roflumilast foam 0.3%, mirroring results from prior trials of roflumilast cream. Treatment-related adverse events were generally mild to moderate, occurring in 96% of the roflumilast group and 92% of the vehicle group. Discontinuation rates due to adverse events were low and comparable between the groups (1.8% vs. 1.3%). Common side effects included headache, diarrhea, COVID-19, and nausea.

Understanding Psoriasis and Treatment Options

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting over 7.5 million adults in the United States. It manifests as raised, red, scaly patches on the skin, frequently enough causing significant physical discomfort and emotional distress. While there is no cure, various treatments are available to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Traditionally, topical corticosteroids have been a mainstay of psoriasis treatment. However, long-term use can lead to side effects, including skin thinning and systemic absorption. Option topical treatments, like topical calcineurin inhibitors, offer a steroid-sparing approach, but may have limited efficacy for more severe cases.

Roflumilast represents a different approach. It’s a phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitor, working internally at a cellular level to reduce inflammation. The foam formulation offers a potentially more convenient and targeted delivery system compared to creams, particularly for scalp psoriasis.

Looking Ahead

The ARRECTOR trial data provides compelling evidence for the efficacy and safety of roflumilast foam 0.3% in treating psoriasis. Further research will continue to refine its role in the broader psoriasis treatment landscape, offering hope for improved outcomes and a better quality of life for those living with this challenging condition.

Reference: Gooderham M, Alonso-Llamazares J, Bhatia N, et al.Roflumilast Foam 0.3% in Patients with Psoriasis of the Scalp and Body: Improvements in Patient-Reported Outcomes in the ARRECTOR trial. Presented at 2025 SDPA in Washington DC from June 25 – June 29th.

What are the potential advantages of a topical roflumilast foam formulation over the oral version for psoriasis treatment?

Roflumilast Foam: A New Hope for Scalp and body Psoriasis Sufferers

Understanding Psoriasis and Current treatments

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the skin, causing raised, red, scaly patches. While various treatments exist – including topical corticosteroids, vitamin D analogs, systemic medications, and phototherapy – finding effective and convenient options, particularly for scalp and body psoriasis, remains a challenge for many. Common psoriasis treatments often come with side effects or require frequent application, impacting patient adherence and quality of life. The search for novel therapies continues,and recent data suggests roflumilast foam could be a significant advancement in psoriasis management. This article will delve into the specifics of this new treatment, its benefits, and what it means for individuals living with psoriasis.

What is Roflumilast and How Does it Work?

Roflumilast is a phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitor. PDE4 is an enzyme that plays a role in inflammation. By inhibiting PDE4, roflumilast reduces the production of inflammatory mediators in the skin, thereby alleviating psoriasis symptoms. Previously available as an oral medication for severe psoriasis, the progress of a topical foam formulation offers a targeted approach with potentially fewer systemic side effects.

Mechanism of Action: roflumilast specifically targets inflammation within the skin cells.

PDE4 inhibition: Reducing PDE4 activity lowers levels of cytokines involved in the psoriatic process.

Targeted Delivery: The foam formulation allows for direct application to affected areas, maximizing efficacy and minimizing systemic absorption.

Roflumilast Foam: Clinical Trial Results & Efficacy

recent clinical trials have demonstrated promising results for roflumilast foam in treating both scalp and body psoriasis. Studies published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (and referenced in numerous dermatology news outlets) showed significant improvements in patients using the foam compared to placebo.

Here’s a breakdown of key findings:

1. Scalp Psoriasis: A significant percentage of patients treated with roflumilast foam achieved at least a 75% reduction in thier Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) score on the scalp – a benchmark for treatment success.
2. body Psoriasis: similar improvements were observed in patients with plaque psoriasis on the body, with many experiencing ample clearing of lesions.
3. Rapid Response: Many patients reported noticeable improvements within weeks of starting treatment.
4. Minimal Systemic Absorption: Studies confirmed minimal absorption of roflumilast into the bloodstream,reducing the risk of systemic side effects.

Benefits of Topical Roflumilast Foam

Compared to conventional psoriasis treatments, roflumilast foam offers several potential advantages:

Localized Treatment: Targets affected areas directly, minimizing exposure to healthy skin.

Reduced Systemic Side Effects: Lower systemic absorption compared to oral medications. Common side effects observed in trials were mild and localized, such as application site reactions.

Convenient Application: The foam formulation is easy to apply and doesn’t require extensive rubbing or occlusion.

Improved Quality of Life: Effective symptom control can lead to significant improvements in quality of life for psoriasis sufferers.

Option for Treatment-Resistant Cases: Offers a new option for individuals who haven’t responded adequately to other therapies.

Who is a Good Candidate for Roflumilast Foam?

Roflumilast foam is generally considered for adults with mild to moderate plaque psoriasis affecting the scalp and/or body. Individuals who may benefit include:

Those who haven’t found relief with topical corticosteroids or vitamin D analogs.

Patients seeking a non-systemic treatment option.

individuals with psoriasis in areas were traditional treatments are difficult to apply (e.g.,scalp hairline).

People who prefer a convenient, once-daily application.

Vital note: It’s crucial to consult with a dermatologist to determine if roflumilast foam is the right treatment option for your specific case of psoriasis.

Practical Tips for Using Roflumilast Foam

If prescribed roflumilast foam, follow these guidelines for optimal results:

Application: Apply a thin layer of foam to the affected areas once daily.

Scalp Application: Part the hair to ensure the foam reaches the scalp.

Wash Hands: wash your hands thoroughly after application.

Consistency is Key: Use the foam consistently as directed by your dermatologist.

Sun Sensitivity: While not a primary concern, be mindful of sun exposure as psoriasis treatments can sometimes increase sensitivity. Use sunscreen.

Report Side Effects: Inform your doctor of any adverse reactions.

Future Directions and Research

Ongoing research is exploring the potential of roflumilast foam in treating other inflammatory skin conditions beyond psoriasis. Further studies are also investigating optimal treatment durations and combination therapies to maximize efficacy. The development of this topical formulation represents a significant step forward in psoriasis management, offering a new and potentially more effective option for millions of sufferers.

Related Keywords & Search Terms:

Psoriasis treatment

Scalp psoriasis

body psoriasis

Topical psoriasis treatment

* Roflum