[Current status of oral immunomodulatory and immunosuppressive agents].

Various dermatological disorders require treatments with immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory agents. Nevertheless, several studies demonstrate low prescription rates for systemic treatments. This low usage may be a result of physicians' low levels of confidence in administering systemic treatments. However, immunosuppressive treatments represent safe options when potential side effects as well as pharmacological interactions are considered. This review overviews the most important oral immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory agents and summarizes their mode of actions, indications, and adverse effects. Biologics that require intravenous or subcutaneous application are not included, but novel and new agents likely to be released soon are considered.