In this special mailbag episode of Derms and Conditions, James Q. Del Rosso, DO, takes on your questions from the field, offering expert guidance and real-world tips on some of the most common challenges in dermatology today.

Dr Del Rosso begins by tackling common challenges with oral apremilast for psoriasis, sharing strategies to manage gastrointestinal side effects and improve patient adherence. He provides tips on starter packs, meal timing, and even reducing caffeine intake to minimize nausea and cramping during therapy initiation.

Next, he discusses the evaluation of alopecia areata severity and how to determine eligibility for oral Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, including baricitinib and ritlecitinib. Dr Del Rosso outlines a practical approach to scalp assessment using SALT scores, explains how psychosocial impact and eyebrow/eyelash loss can upgrade severity, and reviews important safety considerations for JAK inhibitor therapy. He also previews a recently FDA-approved third option: deuruxolitinib.  

Finally, Dr Del Rosso covers the newly FDA-approved modified-release oral minocycline 40 mg capsule formulation for rosacea, highlighting its anti-inflammatory benefits and superior efficacy compared with subantimicrobial-dose doxycycline in a head-to-head controlled-study evaluation. He explains its mechanism of action, favorable safety profile, and how it fits into the modern rosacea treatment landscape.

Tune in for a fast-paced roundup of pearls, pitfalls, and pro tips that can make all the difference in your day-to-day dermatology practice.