The FDA Guidelines for the Treatment of Psoriasis Using Cyclosporine A: Are They Adequate?

I present a review of the current US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidelines for using cyclosporine A (CSA) to treat psoriasis, with particular emphasis on the period for which CSA may be administered. My concern is that, without violating the guidelines, CSA could be given for a prolonged period with only very brief time-outs. I also review the risks for renal toxicity, malignancy, and other side effects from prolonged administration.