Psoriasis is a complex, chronic, multifactorial, inflammatory disease that involves hyperproliferation of the keratinocytes in the epidermis, with an increase in the epidermal cell turnover rate (see the image below).
Clonidine, an alpha 2 -adrenergic agonist, is believed to act through regulation of norepinephrine release from the locus ceruleus. It has been found to be effective in reducing ADHD symptoms alone or in combination with stimulants.
Once stabilized, children on larger doses may be switched to the transdermal clonidine patch. The patch is available in sizes to release 0.1, 0.2, or 0.3 mg/day for 7 days. In younger children, clonidine tablets may be made into an extemporaneous oral suspension. The use of clonidine and methylphenidate in combination continues to be controversial.