Many people develop eczema in childhood and carry it on throughout life, most are only diagnosed for the first time in adulthood. Atopic dermatitis is largely underdiagnosed in the USA. Many do not seek medical attention preferring to go it alone either with over the counter drugs or home remedies. There have been new topical medications and drugs developed over the last few year that can make a huge difference in their quality of life.
Eczema is characterized with discomfort and itching that can affect sleep patterns and cause emotional distress. Allergists will try to work with patients to introduce therapies that can treat the uncomfortable symptoms that can be painful at times such as itchiness, scaly rashes and dry skin that can sometimes become infected. Easing this discomfort associated with the symptoms can improve quality of life, make sleeping easier, and relieve possible embarrassment and emotional distress.
Two medicines have been approved for the use with atopic dermatitis. Dupilumab is a biologic therapy that patients 18 years and older receive by injection meant for patients who can’t use or haven’t responded to topical medications with moderate to severe AD. Crisaborole which is the first anti-inflammatory medication to be approved in over 15 years to be used for the treatment of AD, it is an ointment that reduces itching, redness, and swelling of the skin for patients 2 years old and over with mild to moderate AD.
Many people suffering with the symptoms of eczema have become frustrated by the limitations of existing treatments. These 2 new medications were developed with a better understanding of atopic dermatitis which makes them more effective to help relieve AD symptoms. Additional therapies are expected to be approved in the near future.
