Older systemic drugs aren’t just relics—they’re critical tools for dermatologists tackling all kinds of medical diseases - whether we're talking about patients who can't access (or don't respond adequately) to our highly effective FDA approved drugs for psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, alopecia areata, hidradenitis or about patients with diseases that don't have an extremely effective FDA approved drug - things like lichen planus, granuloma annulare, dermatitis herpetiformis and many, many more. This week, we talk through dapsone, roflumilast, and acitretin.
In this episode, you’ll learn:

Perfect for dermatology providers who want up-to-date, actionable advice on systemic therapy selection, risk monitoring, and patient communication. Whether you’re managing recalcitrant inflammatory disorders or optimizing care for common skin diseases, these “oldies but goodies” might be your next best move.
Tune in for clinical pearls and expert insights you can put to work in your practice!

Older systemic drugs aren’t just relics—they’re critical tools for dermatologists tackling tough diseases like lichen planus, granuloma annulare, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and alopecia areata, especially when FDA-approved options fall short or are inaccessible. Join Derms on Drugs and guest expert Dr. Scott Drew as we share practical pearls for using methotrexate, mycophenolate, cyclosporine, dapsone, roflumilast, and more.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
--When and why to reach for these time-tested therapies in real-world practice
--How to monitor labs and counsel patients for safety and success
--Tips for discussing off-label treatments and navigating complex cases
Perfect for dermatology providers who want up-to-date, actionable advice on systemic therapy selection, risk monitoring, and patient communication. Whether you’re managing recalcitrant inflammatory disorders or optimizing care for common skin diseases, these “oldies but goodies” might be your next best move.
Tune in for clinical pearls and expert insights you can put to work in your practice!
Article titles:
1. Pulse azathioprine and low-dose methotrexate vs. standard-dose methotrexate in treatment of patients with moderate-to-severe psoriasis: a randomized controlled trial
2. Lower Oncogenic Risk with Dermatologic Use of Mycophenolate Mofetil Compared to Transplant Prophylaxis: A Retrospective Study
3. Drug Survival of Dupilumab, Methotrexate, and Cyclosporine A in Children With Atopic Dermatitis

Today on Derms on Drugs we’ve got the fabulous Dr. Heather Woolery-Lloyd with us, and yes—we’re talking sunscreens. Don’t roll your eyes, because we’re going way past “SPF 30 or 50?” into the good stuff: how these lotions and potions actually work, which myths need to finally get buried, and why tinted sunscreens aren’t just makeup but legit medicine for skin of color.

We’ll also dish on the brand-new Aussie rules for UV protection and spill which brands actually look good on darker skin without turning you into a ghost.

And because no episode is complete without it, we’ll detour into lifestyle hacks, chat a little nutrition, and finish with our usual trivia shenanigans.

So, grab your SPF (tinted or not, we don’t judge), and let’s dive in"