Using an Internet Study to Improve Adherence for Psoriasis Patients

Using an Internet Study to Improve Adherence for Psoriasis Patients

To evaluate whether participation in an Internet-based intervention helps improve short-term and long-term psoriasis treatment outcomes, in particular, adherence.

An investigator-blinded, prospective study of subjects with mild to moderate psoriasis will be conducted. Forty subjects ages 18 years and older will be enrolled.The Internet-based survey will be piloted to evaluate its effect on adherence to topical psoriasis medication. Subjects randomized in a 1:1 ratio to the Internet-survey group will log their impression of the state of their psoriasis on a weekly basis. Subjects in both the intervention and control groups will receive standard-of-care topical fluocinonide 0.05% ointment to be applied to affected areas on the skin twice daily. Adherence to fluocinonide will be assessed using Medication Event Monitoring System (MEMS®) caps, electronic monitors affixed to the medication containers. Investigators and subjects will be blinded to the adherence data until the final (Month 12) treatment visit.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Any male or female 18 years or older of age with a diagnosis of mild to moderate psoriasis by a dermatologist will be eligible for participation.
• Less than 20% of body surface involvement for psoriasis.
• Subject is capable of understanding and willing to provide a signed and dated written voluntary informed consent before any protocol specific procedures are performed.
• The subject is able to complete the study and comply with study instructions, including attending all study visits.
• In general good health with no other skin disease, disease state or physical condition which would impair evaluation of psoriasis or which would increase health risk by study participation

Exclusion Criteria:

• Individuals younger than 18 years of age.
• Known allergy or sensitivity to topical fluocinonide.
• Inability to complete all study-related visits, or inability to complete the Internet survey due to inadequate Internet access.
• Introduction of any other prescription medication, topical or systemic, for psoriasis while participating in the study. Subjects who are on systemic anti-inflammatory treatments for psoriasis must be on a stable dose for at least 3 months prior to enrollment.
• Any skin condition or disease that may require concurrent therapy or may confound evaluations
• Current enrollment in any research study involving an investigational drug