Use of psychotropic drugs in dermatology: Unique perspectives of a dermatologist and a psychiatrist

Psychocutaneous morbidity is commonly found in dermatologic practice. Patients generally refuse referral to psychiatry, and dermatologists cannot always provide psychotherapeutic support. By establishing an alliance with these patients and with working knowledge of the common psychotherapeutic agents used in dermatology, these patients can be managed comfortably by the clinician. The major categories of psychodermatologic agents include antipsychotics, antidepressants, anxiolytics, and antiobsessive compulsive drugs. In addition, cutaneous dysesthesia and pruritus can be treated with psychotherapeutic agents when other treatments have been exhausted. The motivated dermatologist can apply this knowledge to treat these common yet challenging cases.