Topical agents are considered as a primary treatment for mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis. Most commonly, they comprise topical corticosteroids and topical calcineurin inhibitors. Branded options also include the topical PDE4 inhibitor Eucrisa, while topical Janus kinase inhibitor Opzelura represents a newer therapy. 

The Th2 immune axis has been identified as a major pathway in the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis. Sanofi and Regeneron’s IL-4 receptor alpha antagonist Dupixent (dupilumab) enjoyed its status as the only biologic approved for the condition in the US from 2017 until the end of 2021, when Adbry (tralokinumab), an antibody that targets the IL-13 cytokine, also gained approval. However, stronger efficacy and familiarity will ensure that Dupixent remains the first-line biologic of choice for atopic dermatitis. While not considered in our drug assessment model, three drugs are advancing in China that block the IL-4 receptor, which is the same molecular target as Dupixent. Simultaneously, various companies are developing anti-IL-13 inhibitors, including lebrikizumab and eblasakimab. Phase III data for lebrikizumab have shown convenient monthly dosing, as well as comparable efficacy and a favorable safety profile compared with Dupixent. 

This Datamonitor Healthcare report contains a Disease Analysis module.