Dupixent (dupilumab) is a biologic medication used to treat atopic dermatitis (AD) and moderate-to-severe asthma in adults. It was first approved by the FDA in 2017 and has since become a popular treatment option for those suffering from these conditions. In Dr. Stahr’s opinion, this is one of the most impressive drugs we have seen in the past 10 years in terms of both the speed of and degree of improvement it can give to a seriously burdened atopic patient.
Atopic dermatitis is a chronic skin condition characterized by itching, redness, and dry skin. It is caused by an overactive immune system that reacts to environmental triggers, such as dust mites, pet dander, and pollen. Dupixent works by blocking a specific protein in the immune system called IL-4 and IL-13. By doing this, it helps to reduce the inflammation that causes AD.
Dupixent is administered as an injection under the skin (subcutaneous) every 2 weeks. It has been shown to be effective in reducing the symptoms of both atopic dermatitis and asthma in many patients. Nearly all of the patients we have given dupixent have reported very significant improvement in their skin within a few weeks of starting treatment with Dupixent.
It is important to note that Dupixent is not a cure for atopic dermatitis, but it can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life for those living with the disease. One shot every two weeks for most patients is a very easily implemented mode of therapy.
If you are suffering from atopic dermatitis and are looking for a new treatment option, we would be happy to talk to you about the potential benefits of Dupixent (or any other modes of therapy appropriate for this diagnosis). At Elect Dermatology, we are board certified M.D. dermatologists who treat atopic disease several times a day. We would love to help give you some relief from your suffering.
