Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is a chronic skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin, with symptoms that can range from mild to severe.

Unfortunately, traditional treatments for atopic dermatitis have been focused on symptom management, and they often come with unwanted side effects. However, a new and innovative treatment recently became available, promising long-lasting relief from eczema symptoms.

What is atopic dermatitis?

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic condition that affects the skin’s ability to retain moisture, leading to inflammation, dryness, and itching.

The exact cause of atopic dermatitis is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. It often starts in childhood and can continue into adulthood, with symptoms appearing in cycles of flare-ups and remission. People with atopic dermatitis may also experience other health conditions, such as asthma and hay fever.

Traditional treatments for atopic dermatitis

The traditional treatments for atopic dermatitis have varied, but they mostly focus on symptom management. The following are some examples:.

: Topical corticosteroids

These are creams or ointments that help reduce inflammation and relieve itching. However, long-term use can lead to side effects, such as skin thinning and discoloration.

Topical calcineurin inhibitors are an alternative, but they also have potential side effects, such as skin burning and stinging.

: Moisturizers

Moisturizers help relieve dryness and itching by promoting skin hydration. However, they do not address the underlying cause of atopic dermatitis, which is inflammation.

: Oral antihistamines

These are medications that help relieve itching and promote sleep. However, they do not reduce inflammation, and they can cause drowsiness and dry mouth.

: Immunosuppressants

These are medications that suppress the immune system’s response, helping reduce inflammation. However, they have potential side effects, such as increased risk of infections and cancers.

The limitations of traditional treatments

Although traditional treatments for atopic dermatitis can provide short-term relief, they have limitations. First, they do not address the underlying cause of the disease – inflammation.

Second, they often come with unwanted side effects, especially with long-term use. Third, they are not effective in controlling the disease in the long term, and many people with atopic dermatitis continue to experience flare-ups despite treatment.

The new and innovative treatment for atopic dermatitis

The new and innovative treatment for atopic dermatitis is called Dupilumab.

It is a biologic medication that works by blocking the action of two key inflammatory molecules, interleukin-4 and interleukin-13, which are believed to play a central role in atopic dermatitis. Dupilumab is injected under the skin once every two weeks, and it can be used in people aged 12 years and older who have moderate to severe atopic dermatitis.

The benefits of Dupilumab

Dupilumab has been shown to be highly effective in reducing atopic dermatitis symptoms and improving the quality of life in people with moderate to severe disease.

A clinical trial of Dupilumab involving 671 adults with atopic dermatitis found that 37% of participants who received Dupilumab had clear or almost clear skin after 16 weeks of treatment, compared to 10% of those who received placebo. In addition, Dupilumab-treated participants reported significant improvements in itching, sleep, and quality of life. The benefits of Dupilumab were sustained over time, with some participants experiencing long-term remission of symptoms.

The side effects of Dupilumab

Like all medications, Dupilumab has potential side effects. The most common side effects reported in clinical trials include injection-site reactions, such as redness, swelling, and itching.

Other potential side effects include eye problems, such as conjunctivitis and dry eye, and allergic reactions. However, the overall frequency of side effects was similar between Dupilumab-treated participants and those who received placebo. In addition, Dupilumab has not been associated with an increased risk of serious infections or cancer so far.

Who can benefit from Dupilumab?

Dupilumab is intended for people with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis who have not responded to, or cannot tolerate, traditional treatments.

It is also suitable for people with other health conditions, such as asthma and hay fever, who are at higher risk of complications from atopic dermatitis. However, Dupilumab is not suitable for people who have certain types of infections, such as tuberculosis, or who have a weakened immune system.

The cost of Dupilumab

As a biologic medication, Dupilumab is expensive compared to traditional treatments for atopic dermatitis.

The average wholesale price for Dupilumab is around $37,000 per year, although the actual cost may vary depending on factors such as insurance coverage and location. However, the manufacturers of Dupilumab offer financial assistance programs to eligible patients to help with the cost of the medication.

In conclusion

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic skin condition that can be challenging to manage, and traditional treatments have their limitations.

However, the new and innovative treatment Dupilumab provides a promising option for people with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis who have not responded to, or cannot tolerate, traditional treatments. Dupilumab works by blocking the action of two key inflammatory molecules, reducing inflammation and relieving symptoms.

Although Dupilumab has potential side effects, they are generally mild, and the benefits of the medication outweigh the risks for many people. If you have atopic dermatitis and are struggling to manage your symptoms, talk to your healthcare provider to determine whether Dupilumab is right for you.