A new drug called EBGLYSS has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of atopic dermatitis, a condition that causes itchy skin and can have a significant impact on sufferers’ lives. The drug inhibits the action of a cytokine believed to be a primary driver behind the condition. Atopic dermatitis can lead to an inability to sleep, social stigmatization, extreme discomfort, and social isolation. EBGLYSS is now approved for adults and children 12 years or older with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis.
Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is characterized by itchy skin, often located on the arms or behind the knees. Scratching can cause the skin to become red, swollen, cracked, and weep clear fluid or blood. The condition can worsen over time, with skin cracks becoming infected and the skin thickening. Individuals with a family history of the condition or allergies are more likely to develop atopic dermatitis, with girls and women more commonly affected than boys and men. The condition typically appears during infancy or childhood.
Dr. Tien Nguyen, a dermatologist involved in the clinical trials for EBGLYSS, explains that atopic dermatitis is the result of pro-inflammatory cytokine activity. Cytokines such as IL-4 and IL-13 play key roles in regulating immune cells and contribute to inflammation and itching. EBGLYSS inhibits the production of IL-13, which is considered a dominant force in atopic dermatitis. The drug was approved by the FDA based on the results of clinical trials, showing efficacy in patients whose atopic dermatitis was not controlled by other treatments.
Treatment with EBGLYSS involves an initial startup dose followed by regular injections. The drug has shown promising results in clinical trials, with a significant percentage of participants experiencing clear or nearly clear skin after a few weeks. Common side effects of EBGLYSS include eye and eyelid inflammation, injection site reactions, and shingles. The drug offers new hope for individuals suffering from atopic dermatitis, providing effective and tailored treatment options that can significantly improve their quality of life.
Continual itching from atopic dermatitis can have a profound impact on a person’s physical and emotional well-being. Dr. Hannah Kopleman shared the story of a patient whose symptoms significantly improved with treatment, including new biologics like EBGLYSS. Successful treatment resulted in less frequent flareups, improved sleep, and enhanced confidence and quality of life. The FDA’s approval of drugs like EBGLYSS offers hope for patients with atopic dermatitis, providing effective and personalized therapies that can transform their lives.
Overall, the approval of EBGLYSS by the FDA represents a significant advancement in the treatment of atopic dermatitis. The drug targets a key cytokine involved in the condition and has shown promising results in clinical trials. With the potential to improve symptoms and quality of life for individuals with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis, EBGLYSS offers new hope for those struggling with this challenging skin condition. Researchers and clinicians continue to explore innovative treatments like EBGLYSS to provide better outcomes for patients with atopic dermatitis.
