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PsoriasisSeptember 2022Summary reviewed June 2026

What the DERMIS Trials Found — Roflumilast Cream for Plaque Psoriasis

Two large studies tested roflumilast cream applied once daily for 8 weeks in people with plaque psoriasis. About 40% of patients using the cream had clear or almost clear skin, compared to only 6-7% using a plain cream. The treatment also reduced itching significantly.

What the trial was testing

The DERMIS enrolled 442 patients with psoriasis. The study was sponsored by Arcutis Biotherapeutics, Inc. and tracked outcomes across the full group of patients who matched the trial's eligibility profile.

It was a large trial designed to confirm whether the treatment works well enough for wider use. Trials at this stage are designed to produce evidence regulators and physicians can act on — not just observations to follow up later.

What the results showed

40% of patients achieved clear or almost clear skin with roflumilast cream versus 6% with plain cream.

JAMA · 2022 · NCT04211389

These findings — that roflumilast cream cleared skin in 40% of patients versus 6% with plain cream — were published in the JAMA and represent the headline result of the study.

Researchers tracked outcomes across 442 patients enrolled in the trial. The result was consistent enough across the group that the team felt confident reporting it.

What this means for patients

For patients with psoriasis, this result changes the calculus on what to ask their care team about. Whether it changes day-to-day care depends on factors like disease subtype, prior treatments, and where the patient is in their care journey.

What you can do now

Roflumilast cream is now FDA-approved for plaque psoriasis. It's applied once daily and showed strong results in clearing skin and reducing itching. Talk to your dermatologist about whether this treatment is right for you.

Eligibility for the treatments mentioned above depends on specific test results and clinical history. Bring this summary, the trial name, and your most recent labs or pathology report to your next visit.