How and when to Use Psychotropic Drugs in Psychodermatology

Abstract A significant number of patients coming to dermatologists have psychiatric symptoms as predisposing, precipitating, and perpetuating factors. Assessment and treatment of these conditions is complex. However, looking at the number of patients with these problems, dermatologist needs to be well versed with an assessment of these patients and use of some of the psychotropic drugs. Some such drugs are discussed here along with a discussion about the decision to use them. Benzodiazepines such as clonazepam and lorazepam, doxepin, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor like fluoxetine, escitalopram, and low dose of antipsychotics like risperidone, haloperidol, and olanzapine are discussed. As the patients are often reluctant to visit a psychiatrist, a dermatologist needs to help in allaying the initial anxiety and to provide understanding about the psychiatric conditions and available options for treatment. In long term, liaison with a psychiatrist can be established and joint treatment by both consultants can be continued.