DermRx.

Mechanisms

Each pathway diagram shows where approved drugs act on a shared signaling backbone. The drug roster underneath each pathway lists every drug whose target falls within that axis. ◉ MOA marks drugs with a per-drug signaling diagram on their page.

CytokineReceptorKinaseTranscription factorCell typeEffectorPhenotype
Drug pin (click to open)
blocks / inhibits / neutralizesagonist

IL-23 / Th17 axis

psoriasis · hidradenitis suppurativa · Adapted from Krueger 2022; AAD 2023 psoriasis guidelines

The most-tested pathway in derm. Drugs cluster at four nodes: cytokine (IL-23 p19 / shared p40), kinase (TYK2), downstream cytokine (IL-17A/F), and receptor (IL-17RA).

IL-23 / Th17

IL-23 (p19) · IL-23R · 5 drugs

Block IL-23 p19 → suppress Th17 maintenance → downstream IL-17/IL-22 ↓.

guselkumab
Tremfya
IL-23 (p19)
IL-23 p19 subunit inhibitor
icotrokinra
IL-23R
12.1 Mechanism of Action Icotrokinra is a peptide that selectively binds to the IL-23 receptor (IL-23R) with a dissociation constant of 7 pM and antagonizes the binding of IL-23. IL-23 is a naturally occurring cytokine that is involved in inflammatory and immune responses. Icotrokinra inhibits the IL-23/IL-23R-dependent release of proinflammatory cytokines.
risankizumab
◉ MOA
Skyrizi
IL-23 (p19)
IL-23 p19 subunit inhibitor
tildrakizumab
IL-23 (p19)IL-37
12.1 Mechanism of Action Tildrakizumab is a humanized IgG1/k monoclonal antibody that selectively binds to the p19 subunit of IL-23 and inhibits its interaction with the IL-23 receptor. IL-23 is a naturally occurring cytokine that is involved in inflammatory and immune responses. Tildrakizumab inhibits the release of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines.
ustekinumab
◉ MOA
IL-12 (p35)IL-23 (p19)
12.1 Mechanism of Action Ustekinumab products are human IgG1қ monoclonal antibodies that binds with specificity to the p40 protein subunit used by both the IL-12 and IL-23 cytokines. IL-12 and IL-23 are naturally occurring cytokines that are involved in inflammatory and immune responses, such as natural killer cell activation and CD4+ T-cell differentiation and activation. In in vitro models, ustekinumab products were shown to disrupt IL-12 and IL-23 mediated signaling and cytokine cascades by disrupting the interaction of these cytokines with a shared cell-surface receptor chain, IL-12Rβ1. The cytokines IL-12 and IL-23 have been implicated as important contributors to the chronic inflammation that is a hallmark of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. In animal models of colitis, genetic absence or antibody blockade of the p40 subunit of IL-12 and IL-23, the target of ustekinumab products, was shown to be protective.

IL-12/23 p40

IL-12 (p35) · IL-23 (p19) · 4 drugs

Shared p40 subunit blockade — dual Th1 + Th17 suppression (ustekinumab).

Type 2 / JAK-STAT6 axis

atopic dermatitis · prurigo nodularis · chronic urticaria · Bieber T. Nat Rev Drug Discov. 2022;21(1):21-40

Maps the alarmin-driven Th2 cascade through JAK-STAT6 to barrier failure, IgE switching, and IL-31 itch — anchoring where each approved type-2 biologic and JAK inhibitor lands.

IL-31 (itch)

IL-31Rα · 1 drugs

Block the neural-itch cytokine receptor — prurigo nodularis, AD pruritus.

JAK-STAT autoimmunity (AA + vitiligo)

alopecia areata · vitiligo · Harris JE & King BA, NEJM 2022; Rashighi et al., Sci Transl Med 2014

One IFN-γ / JAK-STAT / CXCR3 axis drives two distinct depigmentation/hair-loss phenotypes and explains the shared JAK-inhibitor pharmacology.

JAK / STAT

JAK1 · JAK2 · JAK3 · TYK2 · 7 drugs

Inhibit intracellular JAK kinases — broad cytokine signaling attenuation.

abrocitinib
Cibinqo
JAK1
JAK1-selective inhibitor
baricitinib
JAK1JAK2JAK3TYK2
12.1 Mechanism of Action Baricitinib is a Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor. JAKs are intracellular enzymes which transmit signals arising from cytokine or growth factor-receptor interactions on the cellular membrane to influence cellular processes of hematopoiesis and immune cell function. Within the signaling pathway, JAKs phosphorylate and activate Signal Transducers and Activators of Transcription (STATs) which modulate intracellular activity including gene expression. Baricitinib modulates the signaling pathway at the point of JAKs, preventing the phosphorylation and activation of STATs. JAK enzymes transmit cytokine signaling through their pairing (e.g., JAK1/JAK2, JAK1/JAK3, JAK1/TYK2, JAK2/JAK2, JAK2/TYK2). In cell-free isolated enzyme assays, baricitinib had greater inhibitory potency at JAK1, JAK2 and TYK2 relative to JAK3. In human leukocytes, baricitinib inhibited cytokine induced STAT phosphorylation mediated by JAK1/JAK2, JAK1/JAK3, JAK1/TYK2, or JAK2/TYK2 with comparable potencies. However, the relevance of inhibition of specific JAK enzymes to therapeutic effectiveness is not currently known.
deucravacitinib
◉ MOA
Sotyktu
TYK2
TYK2 allosteric (pseudokinase domain) inhibitor
ritlecitinib
BMXBTKITKJAK3TECTXK
12.1 Mechanism of Action LITFULO is a kinase inhibitor. Ritlecitinib irreversibly inhibits Janus kinase 3 (JAK3) and the tyrosine kinase expressed in hepatocellular carcinoma (TEC) kinase family by blocking the adenosine triphosphate (ATP) binding site. In cellular settings, ritlecitinib inhibits cytokine induced STAT phosphorylation mediated by JAK3-dependent receptors. Additionally, ritlecitinib inhibits signaling of immune receptors dependent on TEC kinase family members. The relevance of inhibition of specific JAK or TEC family enzymes to therapeutic effectiveness is not currently known.
ruxolitinib
JAK1JAK2JAK3TYK2
12.1 Mechanism of Action Ruxolitinib, a Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor, inhibits JAK1 and JAK2 which mediate the signaling of a number of cytokines and growth factors that are important for hematopoiesis and immune function. JAK signaling involves recruitment of STATs (signal transducers and activators of transcription) to cytokine receptors, activation and subsequent localization of STATs to the nucleus leading to modulation of gene expression. The relevance of inhibition of specific JAK enzymes to therapeutic effectiveness is not currently known.
ruxolitinib (topical)
Opzelura
JAK1JAK2
JAK1/JAK2 inhibitor
upadacitinib
◉ MOA
Rinvoq
JAK1
JAK1-selective inhibitor

TNF / inflammasome axis

hidradenitis suppurativa · psoriasis · pyoderma gangrenosum · Frew JW. Br J Dermatol 2020; Sabat R. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2020

Follicular occlusion or innate triggers activate the NLRP3 inflammasome, releasing IL-1β + TNF-α that drive NF-κB-mediated IL-17 amplification and neutrophilic skin inflammation.

Sebaceous-androgen-C. acnes axis

acne vulgaris · Zaenglein AL et al. JAAD 2016; Dreno B et al. JEADV 2018

Androgen-driven sebum production and keratinocyte hyperproliferation feed C. acnes overgrowth, TLR2 signaling, and IL-1/IL-17/IL-8-mediated perifollicular inflammation. Integrates the hormonal node (clascoterone, spironolactone), the retinoid node (RAR), and the antimicrobial node (BPO, tetracyclines) on one diagram.

Retinoid (RAR / RXR)

RAR · RXR · 6 drugs

Topical (tretinoin, adapalene, tazarotene, trifarotene) and oral (isotretinoin, acitretin).

acitretin
RARRXRSignal transducer and activator of transcription 3
The mechanism of action of acitretin is unknown, however it is believed to work by targeting specific receptors (retinoid receptors such as RXR and RAR) in the skin which help normalize the growth cycle of skin cells.
adapalene
RARRXR
Mechanism of Action: Adapalene acts on retinoid receptors. Biochemical and pharmacological profile studies have demonstrated that adapalene is a modulator of cellular differentiation, keratinization, and inflammatory processes all of which represent important features in the pathology of acne vulgaris. Mechanistically, adapalene binds to specific retinoic acid nuclear receptors but does not bind to the cytosolic receptor protein. Although the exact mode of action of adapalene is unknown, it is suggested that topical adapalene normalizes the differentiation of follicular epithelial cells resulting in decreased microcomedone formation.
isotretinoin
RAR
12.1 Mechanism of Action Isotretinoin is a retinoid, which when administered at the recommended dosage [see Dosage and Administration (2.1) ] , inhibits sebaceous gland function and keratinization. Clinical improvement in nodular acne patients occurs in association with a reduction in sebum secretion. The decrease in sebum secretion is temporary and is related to the dose and duration of treatment with isotretinoin capsules and reflects a reduction in sebaceous gland size and an inhibition of sebaceous gland differentiation. The exact mechanism of action of isotretinoin in the treatment of severe recalcitrant nodular acne is unknown.
tazarotene
RARRXR
12.1 Mechanism of Action Tazarotene is a retinoid prodrug which is converted to its active form, the carboxylic acid of tazarotene, by deesterification. Tazarotenic acid binds to all three members of the retinoic acid receptor (RAR) family: RARα, RARβ, and RARɣ, but shows relative selectivity for RARβ, and RARɣ and may modify gene expression. The clinical significance of these findings is unknown.
tretinoin
RARRXR
12.1 Mechanism of Action Although tretinoin activates three members of the retinoic acid (RAR) nuclear receptors (RARα, RARβ, and RARγ) which may act to modify gene expression, subsequent protein synthesis, and epithelial cell growth and differentiation, it has not been established whether the clinical effects of tretinoin are mediated through activation of retinoic acid receptors and/or other mechanisms. The exact mechanism of action of topical tretinoin for treatment of acne vulgaris is unknown. Current evidence suggests that topical tretinoin decreases cohesiveness of follicular epithelial cells with decreased microcomedone formation. Additionally, tretinoin stimulates mitotic activity and increased turnover of follicular epithelial cells causing extrusion of the comedones.
trifarotene
RAR
12.1 Mechanism of Action Trifarotene is an agonist of retinoic acid receptors (RAR), with particular activity at the gamma subtype of RAR. Stimulation of RAR results in modulation of target genes which are associated with various processes, including cell differentiation and mediation of inflammation. The exact process by which trifarotene ameliorates acne is unknown.

Other target families

Families that don't map to a pathway diagram — typically a single mechanism per family (calcineurin, vitamin D, AhR), or a class without an integrated derm-specific pathway story yet.

AhR

AhR · 1 drugs

Aryl hydrocarbon receptor agonists — barrier, antioxidant, Th17 suppression.

Calcineurin (TCI)

Calcineurin · 3 drugs

Topical (tacrolimus, pimecrolimus) and systemic (cyclosporine) — block T-cell activation.

cyclosporine
CalcineurinCalcineurin subunit B type 2
Cyclosporine is a calcineurin inhibitor that inhibits T cell activation.[A174049,A174088,A189411] Its binding to the receptor cyclophilin-1 inside cells produces a complex known as cyclosporine-cyclophilin. This complex subsequently inhibits calcineurin, which in turn stops the dephosphorylation as well as the activation of the nuclear factor of activated T cells (NF-AT) that normally cause inflammatory reactions. NF-AT is a transcription factor that promotes the production of cytokines such as IL-2, IL-4, interferon-gamma and TNF-alpha, all of which are involved in the inflammatory process. Specifically, the inhibition of IL-2, which is necessary for T cell activation or proliferation, is believed to be responsible for cyclosporine's immunosuppressive actions.[A174049,A189408] In addition to the above, the inhibition of NF-AT leads to lower levels of other factors associated with T helper cell function and thymocyte development.[A174049]
pimecrolimus
CalcineurinSerine/threonine-protein kinase mTOR
12.1 Mechanism of Action The mechanism of action of pimecrolimus in atopic dermatitis is not known. While the following have been observed, the clinical significance of these observations in atopic dermatitis is not known. It has been demonstrated that pimecrolimus binds with high affinity to macrophilin-12 (FKBP-12) and inhibits the calcium-dependent phosphatase, calcineurin. As a consequence, it inhibits T-cell activation by blocking the transcription of early cytokines. In particular, pimecrolimus inhibits at nanomolar concentrations Interleukin-2 and interferon gamma (Th1-type) and Interleukin-4 and Interleukin-10 (Th2-type) cytokine synthesis in human T-cells. In addition, pimecrolimus prevents the release of inflammatory cytokines and mediators from mast cells in vitro after stimulation by antigen/IgE.
tacrolimus
Calcineurin
Mechanism of Action The mechanism of action of tacrolimus in atopic dermatitis is not known. While the following have been observed, the clinical significance of these observations in atopic dermatitis is not known. It has been demonstrated that tacrolimus inhibits T-lymphocyte activation by first binding to an intracellular protein, FKBP-12. A complex of tacrolimus-FKBP-12, calcium, calmodulin, and calcineurin is then formed and the phosphatase activity of calcineurin is inhibited. This effect has been shown to prevent the dephosphorylation and translocation of nuclear factor of activated T-cells (NF-AT), a nuclear component thought to initiate gene transcription for the formation of lymphokines (such as interleukin-2, gamma interferon). Tacrolimus also inhibits the transcription for genes which encode IL-3, IL-4, IL-5, GM-CSF, and TNF-α, all of which are involved in the early stages of T-cell activation. Additionally, tacrolimus has been shown to inhibit the release of pre-formed mediators from skin mast cells and basophils, and to down regulate the expression of FcεRI on Langerhans cells.

Antimetabolite / folate

Dihydrofolate reductase · Thymidylate synthase · 1 drugs

Methotrexate, azathioprine — folate / purine pathway disruption + adenosine release.

Vitamin D receptor

Vitamin D receptor · 1 drugs

Topical analogs (calcipotriene, calcitriol) — keratinocyte differentiation, T-cell modulation.

Unclassified

61 drugs

Topicals, antibiotics, or ingested rows without DrugBank target enrichment yet — primary target doesn't map to any tracked family.

adalimumab
◉ MOA
Humira
TNF
TNF-α inhibition (soluble + transmembrane)
adquey
12.1 Mechanism of Action Difamilast is an inhibitor of phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE-4). Difamilast’s inhibition of PDE-4 (a major cyclic adenosine monophosphate (AMP)-metabolizing enzyme) activity leads to accumulation of intracellular cyclic AMP and decreased productions of various cytokines and chemokines. However, the specific mechanism(s) by which difamilast exerts its therapeutic action is not well defined.
azelaic acid
12.1 Mechanism of Action The mechanism(s) by which azelaic acid interferes with the pathogenic events in rosacea are unknown.
benzoyl peroxide
12.1 Mechanism of Action Benzoyl peroxide is an oxidizing agent with bactericidal and keratolytic effects, but the precise mechanism of action is unknown. Tretinoin is a metabolite of vitamin A that binds with high affinity to specific retinoic acid receptors located in both the cytosol and nucleus. Tretinoin activates three members of the retinoic acid (RAR) nuclear receptors (RARα , RARβ, RARγ) which act to modify gene expression, subsequent protein synthesis, and epithelial cell growth and differentiation. It has not been established whether the clinical effects of tretinoin are mediated through activation of retinoic acid receptors, and/or other mechanisms. Although the exact mode of action of tretinoin in acne treatment is unknown, current evidence suggests that topical tretinoin decreases cohesiveness of follicular epithelial cells with decreased microcomedo formation. Additionally, tretinoin stimulates mitotic activity and increased turnover of follicular epithelial cells causing extrusion of the comedones.
betamethasone acetate
betamethasone dipropionate
12.1 Mechanism of Action Corticosteroids play a role in cellular signaling, immune function, inflammation, and protein regulation; however, the precise mechanism of action of betamethasone dipropionate spray in psoriasis is unknown.
betamethasone sodium phosphate
brimonidine
12.1 Mechanism of Action Brimonidine is a relatively selective alpha-2 adrenergic agonist. Topical application of brimonidine topical gel may reduce erythema through direct vasoconstriction.
brimonidine tartrate
12.1 Mechanism of Action Brimonidine is a relatively selective alpha-2 adrenergic agonist. Topical application of MIRVASO topical gel may reduce erythema through direct vasoconstriction.
calcipotriene
12.1 Mechanism of Action Calcipotriene is a synthetic vitamin D3 analog that has a similar receptor binding affinity as natural vitamin D3. However, the exact mechanism of action contributing to the clinical efficacy in the treatment of psoriasis is unknown.
cetirizine
cetirizine hydrochloride
Mechanism of Actions Cetirizine, a human metabolite of hydroxyzine, is an antihistamine; its principal effects are mediated via selective inhibition of peripheral H 1 receptors. The antihistaminic activity of cetirizine has been clearly documented in a variety of animal and human models. In vivo and ex vivo animal models have shown negligible anticholinergic and antiserotonergic activity. In clinical studies, however, dry mouth was more common with cetirizine than with placebo. In vitro receptor binding studies have shown no measurable affinity for other than H 1 receptors. Autoradiographic studies with radiolabeled cetirizine in the rat have shown negligible penetration into the brain. Ex vivo experiments in the mouse have shown that systemically administered cetirizine does not significantly occupy cerebral H 1 receptors.
ciclopirox
Mechanism of Action Ciclopirox is a hydroxypyridone antifungal agent although the relevance of this property for the indication of seborrheic dermatitis is not known. Ciclopirox acts by chelation of polyvalent cations (Fe 3+ or Al 3+ ), resulting in the inhibition of the metal-dependent enzymes that are responsible for the degradation of peroxides within the fungal cell.
clindamycin
Clindamycin inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to 23S RNA of the 50S subunit of the bacterial ribosome.[L11599] It impedes both the assembly of the ribosome and the translation process.[L11629] The molecular mechanism through which this occurs is thought to be due to clindamycin's three-dimensional structure, which closely resembles the 3'-ends of L-Pro-Met-tRNA and deacylated-tRNA during the peptide elongation cycle - in acting as a structural analog of these tRNA molecules, clindamycin impairs peptide chain initiation and may stimulate dissociation of peptidyl-tRNA from bacterial ribosomes.[A190621] The mechanism through which topical clindamycin treats acne vulgaris is unclear, but may be related to its activity against _Propionibacterium acnes_, a bacteria that has been associated with acne.[L11593]
clindamycin phosphate
Mechanism of Action The mechanism of action of clindamycin in treating acne vulgaris is unknown.
clobetasol propionate
Glucocorticoid receptor
12.1 Mechanism of Action Like other topical corticosteroids, clobetasol propionate shampoo, 0.05%, has anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, and vasoconstrictive properties. The mechanism of the anti-inflammatory activity of the topical steroids, in general, is unclear. However, corticosteroids are thought to act by the induction of phospholipase A 2 inhibitory proteins, collectively called lipocortins. It is postulated that these proteins control the biosynthesis of potent mediators of inflammation such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes by inhibiting the release of their common precursor, arachidonic acid. Arachidonic acid is released from membrane phospholipids by phospholipase A 2 .
dapsone
12.1 Mechanism of Action The mechanism of action of dapsone gel in treating acne vulgaris is not known.
desloratadine
12.1 Mechanism of Action Desloratadine is a long-acting tricyclic histamine antagonist with selective H 1 -receptor histamine antagonist activity. Receptor binding data indicates that at a concentration of 2-3 ng/mL (7 nanomolar), desloratadine shows significant interaction with the human histamine H 1 -receptor. Desloratadine inhibited histamine release from human mast cells in vitro . Results of a radiolabeled tissue distribution study in rats and a radioligand H 1 -receptor binding study in guinea pigs showed that desloratadine did not readily cross the blood brain barrier. The clinical significance of this finding is unknown.
desonide
Glucocorticoid receptor
12.1 Mechanism of Action The mechanism of action of desonide is unknown.
desoximetasone
Glucocorticoid receptor
12.1 Mechanism of Action Corticosteroids play a role in cellular signaling, immune function, inflammation and protein regulation; however, the precise mechanism of action in psoriasis is unknown.
deuruxolitinib phosphate
12.1 Mechanism of Action Deuruxolitinib is a Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor. JAKs mediate the signaling of a number of cytokines and growth factors that are important for hematopoiesis and immune function. JAK signaling involves recruitment of STATs (signal transducers and activators of transcription) to cytokine receptors, activation and subsequent localization of STATs to the nucleus leading to modulation of gene expression. In an in vitro kinase activity assay, deuruxolitinib had greater inhibitory potency for JAK1, JAK2 and TYK2 relative to JAK3. The relevance of inhibition of JAK enzymes to therapeutic effectiveness is not currently known.
dexamethasone
Glucocorticoid receptor
The short term effects of corticosteroids are decreased vasodilation and permeability of capillaries, as well as decreased leukocyte migration to sites of inflammation.[A187463] Corticosteroids binding to the glucocorticoid receptor mediates changes in gene expression that lead to multiple downstream effects over hours to days.[A187463] Glucocorticoids inhibit neutrophil apoptosis and demargination; they inhibit phospholipase A2, which decreases the formation of arachidonic acid derivatives; they inhibit NF-Kappa B and other inflammatory transcription factors; they promote anti-inflammatory genes like interleukin-10.[A187463] Lower doses of corticosteroids provide an anti-inflammatory effect, while higher doses are immunosuppressive.[A187463] High doses of glucocorticoids for an extended period bind to the mineralocorticoid receptor, raising sodium levels and decreasing potassium levels.[A187463]
dexamethasone sodium phosphate
doxepin
doxycycline
12.1 Mechanism of Action The mechanism of action of Doxycycline in the treatment of inflammatory lesions of rosacea is unknown.
doxycycline hyclate
12.1 Mechanism of Action Doxycycline is a tetracycline-class antimicrobial drug [see Microbiology (12.4)].
erythromycin
In order to replicate, bacteria require a specific process of protein synthesis, enabled by ribosomal proteins.[A6505] Erythromycin acts by inhibition of protein synthesis by binding to the 23S ribosomal RNA molecule in the 50S subunit of ribosomes in susceptible bacterial organisms. It stops bacterial protein synthesis by inhibiting the transpeptidation/translocation step of protein synthesis and by inhibiting the assembly of the 50S ribosomal subunit.[L7261,A14179] This results in the control of various bacterial infections.[A174193,L7261] The strong affinity of macrolides, including erythromycin, for bacterial ribosomes, supports their broad‐spectrum antibacterial activities.[A174193]
ethinyl estradiol
fluocinolone acetonide
Glucocorticoid receptor
12.1 Mechanism of Action Corticosteroids play a role in cellular signaling, immune function, inflammation, and protein regulation; however, the precise mechanism of action in psoriasis of the scalp is unknown.
fluocinonide
12.1 Mechanism of Action Corticosteroids play a role in cellular signaling, immune function, inflammation, and protein regulation; however, the precise mechanism of action of fluocinonide cream USP, 0.1% in corticosteroid responsive dermatoses is unknown.
fluticasone propionate
Glucocorticoid receptor
12.1 Mechanism of Action Corticosteroids play a role in cellular signaling, immune function, inflammation, and protein regulation; however, the precise mechanism of action of fluticasone propionate lotion in atopic dermatitis is unknown.
halobetasol propionate
12.1 Mechanism of Action Corticosteroids play a role in cellular signaling, immune function, inflammation, and protein regulation; however, the precise mechanism of action in plaque psoriasis is unknown.
hydrocortisone
Glucocorticoid receptor
The short-term effects of corticosteroids are decreased vasodilation and permeability of capillaries, as well as decreased leukocyte migration to sites of inflammation.[A187463] Corticosteroids binding to the glucocorticoid receptor mediates changes in gene expression that lead to multiple downstream effects over hours to days.[A187463] Glucocorticoids inhibit neutrophil apoptosis and demargination; they inhibit phospholipase A2, which decreases the formation of arachidonic acid derivatives; they inhibit NF-Kappa B and other inflammatory transcription factors; they promote anti-inflammatory genes like interleukin-10.[A187463] Lower doses of corticosteroids provide an anti-inflammatory effect, while higher doses are immunosuppressive.[A187463] High doses of glucocorticoids for an extended period bind to the mineralocorticoid receptor, raising sodium levels and decreasing potassium levels.[A187463]
hydrocortisone acetate
Glucocorticoid receptor
Hydrocortisone binds to the cytosolic glucocorticoid receptor. After binding the receptor the newly formed receptor-ligand complex translocates itself into the cell nucleus, where it binds to many glucocorticoid response elements (GRE) in the promoter region of the target genes. The DNA bound receptor then interacts with basic transcription factors, causing the increase in expression of specific target genes. The anti-inflammatory actions of corticosteroids are thought to involve lipocortins, phospholipase A2 inhibitory proteins which, through inhibition arachidonic acid, control the biosynthesis of prostaglandins and leukotrienes. Specifically glucocorticoids induce lipocortin-1 (annexin-1) synthesis, which then binds to cell membranes preventing the phospholipase A2 from coming into contact with its substrate arachidonic acid. This leads to diminished eicosanoid production. The cyclooxygenase (both COX-1 and COX-2) expression is also suppressed, potentiating the effect. In other words, the two main products in inflammation Prostaglandins and Leukotrienes are inhibited by the action of Glucocorticoids. Glucocorticoids also stimulate the lipocortin-1 escaping to the extracellular space, where it binds to the leukocyte membrane receptors and inhibits various inflammatory events: epithelial adhesion, emigration, chemotaxis, phagocytosis, respiratory burst and the release of various inflammatory mediators (lysosomal enzymes, cytokines, tissue plasminogen activator, chemokines etc.) from neutrophils, macrophages and mastocytes. Additionally the immune system is suppressed by corticosteroids due to a decrease in the function of the lymphatic system, a reduction in immunoglobulin and complement concentrations, the precipitation of lymphocytopenia, and interference with antigen-antibody binding.
hydrocortisone butyrate
Glucocorticoid receptor
12.1 Mechanism of Action Corticosteroids play a role in cellular signaling, immune function, inflammation, and protein regulation; however, the precise mechanism of action in atopic dermatitis is unknown.
hydrocortisone sodium succinate
ivermectin
12.1 Mechanism of Action The mechanism of action of ivermectin cream in treating rosacea lesions is unknown.
ketoconazole
Mode of Action In vitro studies suggest that ketoconazole impairs the synthesis of ergosterol, which is a vital component of fungal cell membranes. It is postulated that the therapeutic effect of ketoconazole in seborrheic dermatitis is due to the reduction of M. ovale, but this has not been proven.
levocetirizine dihydrochloride
12.1 Mechanism of Action Levocetirizine, the active enantiomer of cetirizine, is an antihistamine; its principal effects are mediated via selective inhibition of H 1 receptors. The antihistaminic activity of levocetirizine has been documented in a variety of animal and human models. In vitro binding studies revealed that levocetirizine has an affinity for the human H 1 -receptor 2-fold higher than that of cetirizine (Ki = 3 nmol/L vs. 6 nmol/L, respectively). The clinical relevance of this finding is unknown.
levomefolate calcium
lidocaine
Lidocaine is a local anesthetic of the amide type [F4349, L5930, L5948]. It is used to provide local anesthesia by nerve blockade at various sites in the body [F4349, L5930, L5948]. It does so by stabilizing the neuronal membrane by inhibiting the ionic fluxes required for the initiation and conduction of impulses, thereby effecting local anesthetic action [F4349, L5930, L5948]. In particular, the lidocaine agent acts on sodium ion channels located on the internal surface of nerve cell membranes [F4349, L5930, L5948]. At these channels, neutral uncharged lidocaine molecules diffuse through neural sheaths into the axoplasm where they are subsequently ionized by joining with hydrogen ions [F4349, L5930, L5948]. The resultant lidocaine cations are then capable of reversibly binding the sodium channels from the inside, keeping them locked in an open state that prevents nerve depolarization [F4349, L5930, L5948]. As a result, with sufficient blockage, the membrane of the postsynaptic neuron will ultimately not depolarize and will thus fail to transmit an action potential [F4349, L5930, L5948]. This facilitates an anesthetic effect by not merely preventing pain signals from propagating to the brain but by aborting their generation in the first place [F4349, L5930, L5948]. In addition to blocking conduction in nerve axons in the peripheral nervous system, lidocaine has important effects on the central nervous system and cardiovascular system [F4349, L5930, L5948]. After absorption, lidocaine may cause stimulation of the CNS followed by depression and in the cardiovascular system, it acts primarily on the myocardium where it may produce decreases in electrical excitability, conduction rate, and force of contraction [F4349, L5930, L5948].
methoxsalen
After activation it binds preferentially to the guanine and cytosine moieties of DNA, leading to cross-linking of DNA, thus inhibiting DNA synthesis and function.
methylprednisolone
Glucocorticoid receptor
The short term effects of corticosteroids are decreased vasodilation and permeability of capillaries, as well as decreased leukocyte migration to sites of inflammation.[A187463] Corticosteroids binding to the glucocorticoid receptor mediates changes in gene expression that lead to multiple downstream effects over hours to days.[A187463] Glucocorticoids inhibit neutrophil apoptosis and demargination; they inhibit phospholipase A2, which decreases the formation of arachidonic acid derivatives; they inhibit NF-Kappa B and other inflammatory transcription factors; they promote anti-inflammatory genes like interleukin-10.[A187463] Lower doses of corticosteroids provide an anti-inflammatory effect, while higher doses are immunosuppressive.[A187463] High doses of glucocorticoids for an extended period bind to the mineralocorticoid receptor, raising sodium levels and decreasing potassium levels.[A187463]
methylprednisolone acetate
methylprednisolone sodium succinate
metronidazole
12.1 Mechanism of Action The mechanism of action of metronidazole in the treatment of rosacea is unknown.
minocycline
12.1 Mechanism of Action The mechanism of action of AMZEEQ for the treatment of acne is unknown.
minocycline hydrochloride extended-release
12.1 Mechanism of Action The mechanism of action of EMROSI for the treatment of rosacea is unknown.
norethindrone acetate
oxymetazoline hydrochloride
12.1 Mechanism of Action Oxymetazoline is an alpha 1A adrenoceptor agonist. Oxymetazoline acts as a vasoconstrictor.
prednisolone acetate
Glucocorticoid receptor
The short term effects of corticosteroids are decreased vasodilation and permeability of capillaries, as well as decreased leukocyte migration to sites of inflammation.[A187463] Corticosteroids binding to the glucocorticoid receptor mediates changes in gene expression that lead to multiple downstream effects over hours to days.[A187463] Glucocorticoids inhibit neutrophil apoptosis and demargination; they inhibit phospholipase A2, which decreases the formation of arachidonic acid derivatives; they inhibit NF-Kappa B and other inflammatory transcription factors; they promote anti-inflammatory genes like interleukin-10.[A187463] Lower doses of corticosteroids provide an anti-inflammatory effect, while higher doses are immunosuppressive.[A187463] High doses of glucocorticoids for an extended period bind to the mineralocorticoid receptor, raising sodium levels and decreasing potassium levels.[A187463]
prednisolone sodium phosphate
12.1 Mechanism of Action Prednisolone is a synthetic adrenocortical steroid drug with predominantly glucocorticoid properties. Some of these properties reproduce the physiological actions of endogenous glucocorticosteroids, but others do not necessarily reflect any of the adrenal hormones' normal functions; they are seen only after administration of large therapeutic doses of the drug. The pharmacological effects of prednisolone which are due to its glucocorticoid properties include: promotion of gluconeogenesis; increased deposition of glycogen in the liver; inhibition of the utilization of glucose; anti-insulin activity; increased catabolism of protein; increased lipolysis; stimulation of fat synthesis and storage; increased glomerular filtration rate and resulting increase in urinary excretion of urate (creatinine excretion remains unchanged); and increased calcium excretion. Depressed production of eosinophils and lymphocytes occurs, but erythropoiesis and production of polymorphonuclear leukocytes are stimulated. Inflammatory processes (edema, fibrin deposition, capillary dilatation, migration of leukocytes and phagocytosis) and the later stages of wound healing (capillary proliferation, deposition of collagen, cicatrization) are inhibited. Prednisolone can stimulate secretion of various components of gastric juice. Suppression of the production of corticotropin may lead to suppression of endogenous corticosteroids. Prednisolone has slight mineralocorticoid activity, whereby entry of sodium into cells and loss of intracellular potassium is stimulated. This is particularly evident in the kidney, where rapid ion exchange leads to sodium retention and hypertension.
prednisone
Glucocorticoid receptor
12.1 Mechanism of Action Naturally occurring corticosteroids (hydrocortisone and cortisone), which also have salt-retaining properties, are used as replacement therapy in adrenocortical deficiency states. Their synthetic analogs, such as prednisone, are primarily used for their potent anti-inflammatory effects in disorders of many organ systems. Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, cause profound and varied metabolic effects. In addition, they modify the body's immune responses to diverse stimuli. Prednisone is a synthetic adrenocortical steroid drug with predominantly corticosteroid properties. Some of these properties reproduce the physiological actions of endogenous glucocorticosteroids, but others do not necessarily reflect any of the adrenal hormones' normal functions; they are seen only after administration of large therapeutic doses of the drug. The pharmacological effects of prednisone which are due to its corticosteroid properties include: promotion of gluconeogenesis; increased deposition of glycogen in the liver; inhibition of the utilization of glucose; anti-insulin activity; increased catabolism of protein; increased lipolysis; stimulation of fat synthesis and storage; increased glomerular filtration rate and resulting increase in urinary excretion of urate (creatinine excretion remains unchanged); and increased calcium excretion. Depressed production of eosinophils and lymphocytes occurs, but erythropoiesis and production of polymorphonuclear leukocytes are stimulated. Inflammatory processes (edema, fibrin deposition, capillary dilatation, migration of leukocytes and phagocytosis) and the later stages of wound healing (capillary proliferation, deposition of collagen, cicatrization) are inhibited. Prednisone can stimulate secretion of various components of gastric juice. Suppression of the production of corticotropin may lead to suppression of endogenous corticosteroids. Prednisone has slight mineralocorticoid activity, whereby entry of sodium into cells and loss of intracellular potassium is stimulated. This is particularly evident in the kidney, where rapid ion exchange leads to sodium retention and hypertension.
remibrutinib
12.1 Mechanism of Action Remibrutinib is an oral, small molecule kinase inhibitor that inhibits Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK). BTK is an intracellular protein expressed in mast cells, basophils, B cells, macrophages, and thrombocytes. BTK is involved in intracellular signaling via Fc epsilon receptor-1 (FcεR1), Fc gamma receptors (FcγR), and the B cell antigen receptor (BCR). Remibrutinib also inhibits the BTK-related kinases tec protein tyrosine kinase (TEC) and BMX non-receptor tyrosine kinase (BMX). Remibrutinib inhibits mast cell and basophil degranulation, including release of histamine and other proinflammatory mediators, mediated by pathogenic IgE or IgG directed against the FcεR1 or IgE.
salicylic acid
Salicylic acid directly and reversibly inhibits COX-1 and COX-2 to decrease conversion of arachidonic acid to precursors of prostaglandins and thromboxanes.[A33150, A274656] Salicylate's use in rheumatic diseases is due to it's analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity. Salicylic acid is a key ingredient in many skin-care products for the treatment of acne, psoriasis, calluses, corns, keratosis pilaris, and warts. Salicylic acid allows cells of the epidermis to more readily slough off. Because of its effect on skin cells, salicylic acid is used in several shampoos used to treat dandruff. Salicylic acid is also used as an active ingredient in gels which remove verrucas (plantar warts). Salicylic acid competitively inhibits oxidation of uridine-5-diphosphoglucose (UDPG) with nicotinamide adenosine dinucleotide (NAD) and noncompetitively with UDPG. It also competitively inhibits the transferring of the glucuronyl group of uridine-5-phosphoglucuronic acid (UDPGA) to a phenolic acceptor. Inhibition of mucopoly saccharide synthesis is likely responsible for the slowing of wound healing with salicylates.
sarecycline
12.1 Mechanism of Action Sarecycline is an aminomethylcycline within the tetracycline class of drugs. [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY ( 12.4 )] . The mechanism of action of SEYSARA in treating the inflammatory lesions of non-nodular acne vulgaris is not known.
selenium sulfide
sodium sulfacetamide
spesolimab
IL-36R
12.1 Mechanism of Action Spesolimab-sbzo is a humanized monoclonal immunoglobulin G1 antibody that inhibits interleukin-36 (IL-36) signaling by specifically binding to the IL36R. Binding of spesolimab-sbzo to IL36R prevents the subsequent activation of IL36R by its ligands (IL-36 α, β and γ) and downstream activation of pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrotic pathways. The precise mechanism linking reduced IL36R activity and the treatment of flares of GPP is unclear.
sulfur
triamcinolone acetonide