DFD-01: a novel topical formulation of betamethasone dipropionate for the treatment of extensive psoriasis.

INTRODUCTION: Betamethasone dipropionate has been used for the topical treatment of psoriasis in multiple formulations. DFD-01 (Sernivo™, Promius Pharma LLC) is a new midpotent lotion formulation of betamethasone dipropionate 0.05% that has recently been approved for the treatment of mild to moderate psoriasis for up to 4 weeks. Areas covered: This review will critically appraise available clinical information on DFD-01. Phase 3 efficacy and safety results will be reviewed on head-to-head comparison of DFD-01 with a superpotent augmented betamethasone dipropionate 0.05% lotion. It is suggested that the formulation of DFD-01 has enabled this midpotent topical steroid to demonstrate equivalent efficacy to a superpotent steroid. Expert commentary: DFD-01's unique advantage is that this product has the efficacy of a higher potency steroid but with the safety profile of a mid-potency steroid based on VCA assays. This formulation also has aesthetic appeal, which may benefit compliance.