Ten years ago, patients with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis who failed topical treatments had few systemic options. Today, a new generation of biologic medications has fundamentally changed the treatment landscape.
Dupilumab (Dupixent), The Breakthrough
Approved by the FDA in 2017, dupilumab was the first biologic approved specifically for atopic dermatitis. It works by blocking the IL-4 and IL-13 receptor, two cytokines that play central roles in the Th2 inflammatory pathway driving eczema.
In clinical trials, dupilumab achieved EASI-75 responses in up to 72% of patients, a benchmark that was virtually unthinkable with previous treatments.
Tralokinumab (Adbry), Targeting IL-13 Specifically
Approved in 2021, tralokinumab specifically targets IL-13, one of the key drivers of inflammation in atopic dermatitis. Clinical trials showed significant skin clearance and itch reduction.
Nemolizumab (NEMLUVIO), Targeting the Itch
Nemolizumab targets IL-31 receptor A, directly addressing the neuroinflammatory pathway responsible for the debilitating itch in atopic dermatitis. Approved by the FDA, it is particularly effective for itch reduction.
JAK Inhibitors: Abrocitinib (Cibinqo) and Upadacitinib (Rinvoq)
While technically not biologics, JAK inhibitors represent another major advance. They work by blocking intracellular signaling pathways activated by multiple inflammatory cytokines simultaneously, producing rapid itch relief.
What Is Coming Next?
The next wave of research is exploring IL-33, IL-25, and thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) as targets, as well as microbiome-based therapies.
NuLine is at the forefront of this research. View our current eczema studies to see if you qualify.