Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that affects a significant proportion of the population worldwide.

Historically, treatment options for the condition were limited, with most options providing only short-term relief from symptoms. However, recent advances in research have led to the development of novel therapies that are increasingly effective at managing the symptoms of AD over the long-term.

In this article, we review some of these new treatments and discuss the long-term effects they have on patient health.

The impact of AD on patient wellbeing

Atopic dermatitis is an unpleasant and uncomfortable condition that can have a significant impact on the quality of life of those who suffer from it. Some of the most common symptoms of AD include:.

Dry, itchy skin
Red, inflamed skin
Rashes, which may be scaly or oozy
Bumps or blisters that may crust over

These symptoms can be both physically and emotionally distressing, causing sufferers to feel self-conscious or embarrassed about their appearance.

For some patients, the condition can also cause difficulty sleeping, leading to a range of secondary health problems, including depression and anxiety.

Treating AD in the short-term

Historically, treatment options for AD focused on managing the symptoms of the condition in the short-term. Some of the most commonly used treatments included:.

Topical corticosteroids: These medications help to reduce inflammation and itching in the skin, providing relief from symptoms.
Emollients: These moisturizing creams and ointments can help to soothe dry, itchy skin, reducing discomfort and preventing further irritation.
Antihistamines: These medications are sometimes used to help reduce itching and promote sleep in patients with AD.

While these treatments can be effective at providing short-term relief, they do not necessarily address the underlying cause of AD. As a result, many patients find that symptoms return soon after treatment is stopped.

New long-term treatments for AD

In recent years, a number of new therapies have been developed that are more effective at managing the symptoms of AD over the long-term. Here are some of the most promising:.

Dupixent (dupilumab): Dupixent is a monoclonal antibody that targets the proteins responsible for promoting inflammation in the skin. Studies have shown that treatment with Dupixent can improve symptoms of AD, including itching and redness, and can reduce the need for other medications. In addition, patients treated with Dupixent have reported improvement in their quality of life and a reduction in sleeping problems.
Crisaborole: Crisaborole is a topical ointment that helps to reduce inflammation in the skin. In clinical trials, the ointment was found to be effective at reducing itching and redness in patients with AD, with many patients reporting significant improvement in their symptoms.
Nemolizumab: Nemolizumab is another monoclonal antibody that targets proteins involved in inflammation. Recent studies have shown that the drug is effective at reducing itching and improving sleep in patients with AD.

The long-term effects of novel AD treatments

One of the key benefits of these new therapies is their ability to provide long-term relief from symptoms of AD.

Unlike traditional treatments, which may only work temporarily, many of the new therapies have been shown to continue working for months or even years after starting treatment. This means that patients are better able to manage their condition over the long-term, reducing the need for repeated courses of treatment.

Improving quality of life for AD patients

In addition to improving symptoms, many of the new AD treatments have been found to improve overall quality of life for patients. This is a crucial consideration given the significant impact that AD can have on patient wellbeing.

By reducing the impact of symptoms on their life, patients are better able to participate in daily activities and maintain relationships with loved ones. This can have a significant impact on mental health, reducing the risk of conditions like depression and anxiety.

Conclusion

Atopic dermatitis is a challenging condition that can have a significant impact on patient health and wellbeing.

However, recent advances in research have led to the development of novel therapies that are more effective at managing symptoms over the long-term. By targeting the underlying causes of AD, these new treatments provide patients with lasting relief from symptoms, improving their quality of life and reducing the impact of the condition on their mental and emotional wellbeing.