If you’ve struggled with eczema for a while, you’ve likely heard of Dupixent. Dupixent is one example of a biologic medication used in the management of eczema. But it’s not the only one. In this article, we’ll explain what biologics are, how they work to ease eczema symptoms, what side effects to watch for, and how they fit into your overall treatment plan. We’ll also give an overview of the biologics available for eczema treatment.
What Are Biologics?
Biologics are a type of medicine made from living cells. They’re designed to target specific parts of your immune system that are involved in causing inflammation. Unlike traditional treatments that affect large areas of your body, biologics work in a very focused way. This makes them an exciting option for treating moderate to severe eczema that hasn’t responded well to other treatments.
What Role Do Biologics Play in Eczema Treatment?
In eczema, your immune system becomes overactive, sending signals that lead to inflammation, redness, and itching. Biologics work by blocking these specific signals. For example, some biologics target proteins like interleukin-4 (IL-4) and interleukin-13 (IL-13), which are key players in the inflammation seen in eczema. By stopping these proteins from doing their job, biologics help reduce swelling, calm the skin, and break the cycle of itching and scratching. Biologics are generally reserved for patients with moderate to severe eczema, especially if other treatments such as topical creams haven’t worked well enough. These medications are usually given as injections under the skin every few weeks. By targeting the root causes of inflammation, biologics can significantly improve your symptoms and quality of life. Your healthcare provider will work with you to decide if a biologic is the right option based on your specific condition and overall health.
Potential Side Effects
Like all medications, biologics can cause side effects. Some of the most commonly reported include:
- Injection Site Reactions: Redness, swelling, or discomfort where the shot is given.
- UEye Issues: Some patients may experience conjunctivitis (red or irritated eyes) or other eye-related symptoms.
- Sore Throat or Cold-like Symptoms: A few people might notice mild upper respiratory symptoms.
While serious side effects are rare, it’s important to talk with your provider about any concerns. Your doctor will monitor you closely to ensure the treatment is both safe and effective.
Which Biologics Are Available for Treating Eczema?
Below is a table that summarizes some of the biologics currently used or under study for treating eczema:
| Brand Name | Medication | Mechanism of Action | Usage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dupixent | Dupilumab | Blocks IL-4 and IL-13 signaling | Approved for moderate to severe eczema for patients 6 months and older |
| Adbry | Tralokinumab | Blocks IL-13 signaling | Approved for moderate to severe eczema for patients 12 years and older |
| Ebglyss | Lebrikizumab | Blocks IL-13 signaling | Approved for moderate to severe eczema for patients 12 years and older who weigh at least 40 kg |
| Nemluvio | Nemolizumab | Blocks IL-31 signaling | Approved for moderate to severe eczema for patients 12 years and older together with topical prescription medications |
As always, this table only provides a general overview. Your provider will discuss with you the best option based on your personal situation.
In Summary
Biologics represent a targeted approach to treating eczema by interfering with specific signals that drive inflammation. They offer a promising option for those with moderate to severe eczema who haven’t found relief with traditional treatments. While they do come with potential side effects, working closely with your healthcare provider can help ensure that you receive the safest and most effective treatment for your needs.