Learn more about a biologic drug for atopic dermatitis: insights from dermatologist Dr. Rachel Asiniwasis
Eczema Society of Canada asked dermatologist and researcher Rachel Asiniwasis, MD, FRCPC, to share her expertise on the biologic drug Dupixent® (dupilumab) and how this medication is used to manage atopic dermatitis (AD), the most common form of eczema.
What are biologic drugs?
Biologic drugs sometimes called “biologics” – work differently than traditional treatments for atopic dermatitis (AD) by targeting specific components of the immune system that can cause the disease. To create biologic drugs, scientists engineer proteins from living tissues or cells developed in a laboratory. There are many biologic drugs approved in Canada for the treatment of atopic dermatitis. An advanced therapy for AD, like biologic drugs, can lead to clear skin and significant improvement in itch and skin rashes.
How does Dupixent® work?
Dupixent® helps block certain proteins, called interleukins (IL-4 and IL-13), which can trigger inflammation associated with AD inside the body. As a result, this can reduce inflammation and alleviate signs and symptoms like itching, redness, and rash. Dupixent is also indicated for other conditions that are related to AD, such as asthma, eosinophilic esophagitis (EOE), prurigo nodularis (PN), and chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps.
Who is Dupixent® approved for?
Dupixent® is approved for adults and children (6 months and older) with moderate to severe AD whose disease is not adequately controlled with topical prescription therapies or when those therapies are not advisable. Dupixent® can be used with or without topical corticosteroids.1
How is Dupixent® used?
Dupixent® is taken as a subcutaneous injection (under the skin). Patients should use this medication exactly as prescribed by their health care professional.
What if my atopic dermatitis does not get better?
If you find your AD is not responding to this medication, be sure to let your doctor know. Be sure to speak with a qualified health care professional, such as a dermatologist, if you have any questions about you or your child’s treatment plan.
What are the common side effects of this medication?
All medications have risks and benefits, and the details of the risks and benefits should be reviewed with the prescribing health care professional. Among the most commonly reported side effects are injection site reactions and eye and eyelid inflammation (i.e., redness, swelling, itching and/or dryness). In real-life clinical practice, most cases are milder in nature and can be managed. Please refer to the Product Monograph for more details. If you or your child is experiencing this or has any concerns about the treatment, you should consult the prescribing health care professional.
What if my atopic dermatitis does not get better?
If you find your AD isn’t responding to treatment, let your doctor know, as your treatment plan may need to be adjusted. A qualified health care professional, such as a dermatologist, can help reassess your or your child’s condition and can potentially adjust the treatment plan. There is no cure for AD, but there are now many treatments that can help patients.
Eczema Society of Canada thanks Rachel Asiniwasis, MD, MSHS, FRCPC, FAAD, for her volunteer contribution to this educational content.
Reference: 1 Sanofi-Aventis Canada Inc. (November 2024). Dupixent® (dupilumab) [Product Monograph], solution for subcutaneous injection.
Disclaimer: Information provided in this resource does not constitute medical advice and is not intended to be used as a diagnostic tool. The information is up-to-date at time of publication. All medications, interventions, and treatment plans have risks and benefits, and it is important that individuals discuss their or their child’s specific health care needs with a qualified health care professional.
