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Can this be used to treat eczema without steroids?
Latest Treatments for Eczema: Biologics
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that significantly impacts patients’ quality of life.Whether in children or adults, eczema flare-ups can lead to severe itching, affecting sleep and daily activities.
With advancements in medicine, the emergence of biologics has brought new hope to eczema patients. Today, we will delve into this treatment.
Impact of Eczema
Eczema often begins in childhood, with many children showing symptoms before the age of five. For these children, the itching associated with eczema can disrupt their sleep, leading to frequent scratching at night, which in turn affects their focus and learning performance at school.
Adults face similar challenges; lack of sleep can impact work efficiency and overall quality of life.
Traditional treatments include topical corticosteroids and oral steroids, but long-term use of these methods can result in various side effects. Therefore, seeking safer and more effective treatments is crucial.
What are Biologics?
In recent years, the introduction of biologics has provided new options for treating moderate to severe eczema. One such biologic is Dupilumab, specifically designed for eczema treatment. Unlike traditional immunosuppressants, Dupilumab targets specific parts of the overactive immune response, reducing the risk of side effects.
The underlying cause of eczema is an overreaction of the immune system, particularly the heightened activity of T helper 2 cells. This leads to the release of interleukin-4 and interleukin-13, which trigger itching and damage the skin barrier. Dupilumab helps interrupt this overreaction by blocking the receptors for these interleukins, thereby reducing itching and repairing the skin barrier.
Studies show that even a single injection can lead to significant improvement in symptoms. Within 16 weeks, most patients experience an improvement in their eczema.
Side Effects and Usage Recommendations
Although the side effects of Dupilumab are relatively mild, common reactions include injection site inflammation or slight eye discomfort. These symptoms are usually manageable with simple treatments. No blood tests are required before starting the medication, making Dupilumab a convenient option.
This drug is suitable for infants as young as six months and can be used alongside topical corticosteroids for more comprehensive treatment results.
