Omalizumab for atopic dermatitis has shown promising results. In JAMA Pediatrics, the researchers have demonstrated for the first time that omalizumab, which neutralizes IgE, reduced disease severity and improved quality of life in pediatric patients with severe atopic dermatitis. This was the case even in subjects with very high baseline total plasma IgE levels.
Omaizumab also exhibited a topical corticosteroid-sparing effect. It is possible that omalizumab may work better in pediatrics than adults for atopic dermatitis, as children’s eczema may be more IgE driven than in adults. We have written about Xolair (omalizumab) being studied for eczema in the past.
In another study published in JAMA Dermatology, it found that dupilumab, which blocks the signaling of IL-4 and IL-13, also improved symptoms and quality of life in patients with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis. This study builds upon previous studies which already shows the efficacy of Dupixent (dupilumab) in atopic dermatitis in adults.
Dupilumab is correctly indicated for ages 12 and up and it is being studied currently now for children 6 to 11 years old.
Currently Xolair has approval for 2 other indications, asthma and chronic idiopathic urticaria.
FDA approves Xolair for Chronic Urticaria
Asthma biologic agents (Xolair, Cinqair, Nucala, Fasenra, Dupixent)
Dupixent (dupilumab) is currently indicated for atopic dermatitis, asthma and nasal polyps.
Criteria for Dupixent (dupilumab) for Eczema
Dupilumab for Asthma, a New Indication
The findings of omalizumab and dupilumab in atopic dermatitis, highlight the exciting potential of biologics to improved treatment in atopic dermatitis. Previous treatment of atopic dermatitis were only topical therapies which failed to treat the inflammation “within”. Biological therapy for atopic dermatitis should only be reserved though for patients who are more in the severe range who have failed conventional therapy.
Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema) Treatment
Treatment of Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)