The Pharmaceutical Journal
Vol 270 No 7249 p697
17 May 2003

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Logical layout, and useful for pharmacists involved in dermatology

‘Handbook of systemic drug treatment in dermatology’, by S. H. Wakelin. Pp 256. Price £29.95. London: Manson Publishing Ltd; 2002. ISBN 1 84076 013 3.

Although we tend to think of dermatological treatment as being mainly topical, a range of systemic treatments is now routinely used. Many of these, such as immunomodulators and retinoids, are associated with serious adverse effects and therefore require careful monitoring.

This book contains detailed monographs on 32 drugs or drug groups in alphabetical order. Each monograph covers mode of action, indications, presentation, dosage and suggested regimens, monitoring, contra-
indications, cautions, drug interactions, adverse effects and their management, patient information and use of the drug in special situations (eg, pregnancy and renal disease). In addition, separate chapters deal with prescribing in childhood, pregnancy and lactation, and hepatic and renal disease. Up-to-date references and a list of further reading are included with each monograph. Expert contributors are acknowledged but each monograph helpfully follows a standard format.

Some of the drugs listed do not have marketing authorisations in the United Kingdom for the uses described and in each case this is clearly stated. For these drugs the licensed indications in the relevant countries are listed and references are given.

This book is set out in a pleasing and logical way so that it would be easy to use in day-to-day practice. In this context, the sections on suggested regimens and patient information give particularly useful, practical guidance, rather than merely repeating cautionary statements. It would be useful to any pharmacist involved in the care of patients with dermatological diseases and would be a valuable reference source in any pharmacy library.

Given the pace of developments in dermatology, new and different systemic drugs are likely to be introduced in the short to medium term. We must hope that the author feels inspired to produce a second edition of the same quality and clarity in due course.

Christine Clark