By South Bay Allergy and Asthma Group
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, affects millions of Americans and can significantly disrupt quality of life. Characterized by chronic inflammation, itching, and irritation of the skin, eczema has long been managed with topical corticosteroids, moisturizers, and antihistamines. Fortunately, the landscape of eczema treatment is evolving, and patients now have access to advanced therapies — including injectables and nonsteroidal topicals — that offer targeted relief without the side effects associated with steroids.
At South Bay Allergy and Asthma Group, we are proud to stay at the forefront of these exciting developments, offering our patients the latest FDA-approved options to better manage their eczema symptoms.
Emerging Eczema Therapies: A Closer Look
1. Injectable Biologic Therapies
Biologic medications are a groundbreaking class of treatments designed to target the immune pathways involved in eczema. These therapies are typically administered via injection and may be ideal for patients with moderate to severe eczema who have not responded well to traditional treatments.
- Dupixent (dupilumab): The first FDA-approved injectable for eczema. It targets interleukin-4 and interleukin-13, which are key drivers of inflammation in atopic dermatitis.
- Adbry (tralokinumab): A newer biologic that blocks only IL-13, providing another targeted approach for long-term eczema management.
- Ebglyss (lebrikizuma): Works by specifically targeting and inhibiting the action of interleukin-13.
- Nemluvio (nemolizumab-ilto): A monoclonal antibody that inhibits interleukin-31 signaling and reduces inflammation, itching, and skin barrier dysfunction associated with atopic dermatitis.
These therapies have the potential to reduce flare-ups, minimize itching, and improve skin appearance over time with continued use.
2. Nonsteroidal Topical Medications
Topical steroids have long been the mainstay of eczema treatment, but long-term use can lead to side effects like thinning skin. New nonsteroidal topicals provide effective alternatives:
- Eucrisa (crisaborole): A topical PDE4 inhibitor that reduces inflammation and itching with minimal side effects. Safe for long-term use in adults and children as young as 3 months.
- VTAMA (tapinarof): A topical aryl hydrocarbon receptor modulating agent that has anti-inflammatory properties and shows strong efficacy for plaque psoriasis and eczema.
- Zoryve (roflumilast): A novel PDE4 inhibitor approved for psoriasis and for atopic dermatitis. It offers anti-inflammatory benefits with a favorable safety profile.
- Opzelura™ (ruxolitinib): A topical JAK inhibitor that addresses inflammation at the cellular level and is FDA-approved for mild to moderate atopic dermatitis in non-immunocompromised patients.
Who Is a Candidate for These Treatments?
These new therapies may be especially beneficial for:
- Patients with moderate to severe eczema who experience frequent flare-ups
- Individuals who have not achieved results with traditional steroid creams
- Children and adults looking for long-term management options with fewer side effects
- Those with eczema in sensitive areas such as the face, eyelids, or groin, where steroid use is limited
Our board-certified allergists work with each patient to customize a treatment plan based on the severity of the condition, health history, and lifestyle.
Comprehensive Q&A: Eczema and New Treatments
Q: Are these new treatments safe for children?
A: Yes. Many of the new therapies, including Eucrisa and Dupixent, have been FDA-approved for use in children, sometimes as young as 6 months, depending on the drug. Our team ensures age-appropriate treatment.
Q: How do biologics differ from traditional medications?
A: Biologics target specific molecules involved in the body’s inflammatory response rather than suppressing the immune system broadly. This allows for more precise treatment with fewer systemic side effects.
Q: Do nonsteroidal topicals replace steroid creams?
A: They can for many patients. Nonsteroidal topicals like Eucrisa and Opzelura are suitable for long-term use and sensitive areas, offering a steroid-free alternative or complement to traditional treatment.
Q: Are these medications covered by insurance?
A: Many are covered with prior authorization, especially when prescribed by a specialist. Our staff is experienced in working with insurance providers to help patients access necessary treatments.
Q: How quickly do these treatments work?
A: Some patients see improvements within days to weeks. Biologics typically show improvement after several weeks of consistent use. Topical therapies may relieve symptoms more quickly depending on severity.
Q: Can I continue allergy or asthma treatment while using eczema medications?
A: Yes. Our practice specializes in the full spectrum of allergic conditions, and your treatment plans will be coordinated to ensure optimal outcomes across asthma, allergies, and eczema.
Why Choose South Bay Allergy and Asthma Group?
With multiple locations across the South Bay and Peninsula, our experienced team of allergists and immunologists offers compassionate, evidence-based care. We remain committed to providing the most advanced treatment options available, including the latest eczema therapies.
We believe in empowering our patients with the knowledge and resources they need to feel confident in their skin.
Contact Information
South Bay Allergy and Asthma Group
📞 Main Line: (408) 286-1707
San Jose Office
📍 2211 Moorpark Avenue Suite 130
San Jose, CA 95128
📞 (408) 358-1771
💉 Allergy Shot Station: (408) 580-8414
Los Gatos Office
📍 14981 National Ave #3
Los Gatos, CA 95124
📞 (408) 358-1771
💉 Allergy Shot Station: (408) 610-2647
Mountain View Office
📍 2490 Hospital Drive, #209
Mountain View, CA 94040
📞 (650) 966-8201
💉 Allergy Shot Station: (650) 938-6957
Redwood City Office
📍 100 Arch St Suite 2
Redwood City, CA 94062
📞 (650) 362-4643
💉 Allergy Shot Station: (650) 503-8796
For expert eczema care and access to the latest treatments, schedule your consultation with South Bay Allergy and Asthma Group today. Relief is within reach.