Emerging systemic therapies for atopic dermatitis: oral small molecules and targeted topical agents

Background Until recently, treatment of atopic dermatitis has been limited to topical corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, phototherapy, and systemic immunomodulatory agents. With improved understanding of the pathogenesis underlying atopic dermatitis, targeted oral small molecules and topical agents are being developed. Objective Discuss efficacy and safety profiles of emerging oral small molecules and targeted topical agents in phase 2 and 3 clinical trials. Methods A systemic literature review was conducted to identify results of randomized, placebo-controlled trials of oral small molecules and topical Janus kinase inhibitors up to March 1 2020 for the treatment of atopic dermatitis. Results Three novel oral small molecules, abrocitinib, upadacitinib, and baricitinib, demonstrated improvement of clinical severity, pruritus, and quality of life with acceptable safety profiles. Apremilast, a phosphodiesterase inhibitor, was less efficacious with use limited by adverse effects. Two novel topical agents, ruxolitinib and delgocitinib, were effective and well-tolerated. Conclusions Targeted therapeutics including oral small molecules and topical agents show promise for the treatment of atopic dermatitis. The use of validated core measures is necessary for future trials in order to adequately compare agents and progress evidence-based medicine.

Automated summary

Treatment options for atopic dermatitis have been limited, but the development of targeted oral small molecules and topical agents has shown promise in improving the condition. However, the use of validated core measures is necessary to compare different agents and progress evidence-based medicine.