acitretin + calcipotriol

Acitretin + calcipotriol is a combination therapy used primarily for the treatment of psoriasis. Acitretin is an oral retinoid (vitamin A derivative) that modulates epidermal cell proliferation and differentiation, acting mainly through binding to retinoic acid receptors (RARs) and retinoid X receptors (RXRs), thereby regulating gene transcription involved in keratinocyte growth, inflammation, and immune response. Calcipotriol is a topical vitamin D3 analogue that binds to the vitamin D receptor in keratinocytes, inhibiting their proliferation and promoting differentiation. The combination has demonstrated additive or synergistic efficacy compared to monotherapy with either agent alone, leading to improved clearance rates in patients with plaque psoriasis while potentially reducing the required dose of acitretin and its associated adverse effects[1][4][5][7]. This regimen does not have immunosuppressive activity, making it suitable for patients where immunosuppression is contraindicated.