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Medications That Can Trigger Plaque Psoriasis (And How to Treat It)

If you’ve noticed scaly, inflamed skin after starting a new medication, you’re not imagining it. Certain drugs have been linked to triggering or worsening plaque psoriasis, even in people with no prior history. Knowing what medications to watch for can help you avoid flare-ups and get the right treatment.

Here’s a list of medications known to cause or aggravate plaque psoriasis, plus top treatment options available today.

Common Medications That May Cause Plaque Psoriasis

These medications have been associated with either triggering new psoriasis or worsening existing cases:

1. Beta-blockers

  • Used to treat high blood pressure or heart conditions
  • Common examples: propranolol, atenolol

2. Lithium

  • Often prescribed for bipolar disorder and depression
  • One of the most well-documented psoriasis triggers

3. Antimalarials

  • Used to prevent or treat malaria and autoimmune diseases like lupus
  • Common agents: hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine

4. NSAIDs (Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)

  • Includes ibuprofen, naproxen, and diclofenac
  • May trigger flare-ups in people with underlying psoriasis

5. ACE Inhibitors

  • Blood pressure medications such as enalapril or captopril
  • Can occasionally worsen skin inflammation

6. Interferons

  • Used for hepatitis and some cancers
  • Can overstimulate the immune system and provoke psoriasis

7. Tetracycline antibiotics

  • Common in acne and skin infections
  • Rarely, can trigger psoriatic skin responses

If you’re taking one of these and experiencing symptoms like red patches, silvery scales, or dry cracked skin, speak to your doctor about possible alternatives.

Top Treatment Options for Plaque Psoriasis

Treatment depends on the severity of the flare-up. Here are commonly recommended options:

1. Upadacitinib (Rinvoq)

  • A JAK inhibitor that reduces inflammation at the source
  • Oral medication taken once daily
  • Often prescribed when other treatments have failed

2. Topical Corticosteroids

  • Reduce redness and scaling
  • Best for mild-to-moderate localized psoriasis

3. Biologic Injections

  • Target specific parts of the immune system
  • Examples: adalimumab, secukinumab, ixekizumab
  • Often used for moderate-to-severe cases

4. Vitamin D Analog Creams

  • Help slow skin cell growth and reduce scale buildup
  • Often combined with steroid creams

5. Phototherapy (UV Light Therapy)

  • In-office or at-home treatment with controlled UVB exposure
  • Helps slow skin cell production and reduce inflammation

Always consult a dermatologist to determine which approach is best for your skin and health history—especially if medication-induced.

Conclusion

While plaque psoriasis is often genetic, it can also be triggered by certain medications—especially if you’re already predisposed. If you’re seeing new or worsening symptoms, talk to your doctor about your prescriptions and consider switching treatments. With the right care, including options like upadacitinib, most people can find long-term relief and control flare-ups effectively.

Sources

American Academy of Dermatology – https://www.aad.org

National Psoriasis Foundation – https://www.psoriasis.org

Mayo Clinic – https://www.mayoclinic.org

FDA Drug Safety Communications – https://www.fda.gov

Rinvoq (Upadacitinib) – https://www.rinvoq.com