For patients with severe atopic dermatitis, it can be difficult to find adequate treatment options. For many, treatment revolves around topical creams, anti-inflammatory medications, light therapy, antibiotics, and more. But now, pediatric patients (aged 6-11) in Canada have a new option: DUPIXENT (dupilumab injection). According to a press release from biopharmaceutical company Sanofi Canada, Health Canada recently approved DUPIXENT for children whose atopic dermatitis does not respond well to other topical therapies. Additionally, DUPIXENT is now the first biologic approved for ages 6-11, offering a new route of treatment for this group.

DUPIXENT

Co-developed by Sanofi and Regeneron, DUPIXENT is a fully human monoclonal antibody that works to inhibit IL-4 and IL-13. In many cases, monoclonal antibodies are used in cancer treatments. However, the medical field is beginning to see the benefits in other areas. The American Cancer Society describes monoclonal antibodies as:

man-made proteins that act like human antibodies in the immune system.

In prior research, researchers determined that IL-4 and IL-13 play a role in type 2 inflammation. This can cause more severe symptoms in asthma, severe chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP), and severe atopic dermatitis. By inhibiting these proteins and reducing inflammation, DUPIXENT reduces some of the negative and painful symptoms associated with atopic dermatitis. 

Severe Atopic Dermatitis (AD)

Researchers believe that a combination of genetic and environmental factors cause severe atopic dermatitis (AD), a chronic inflammatory condition characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. You may also know it as eczema. In many cases, those with severe AD also have food allergies, asthma, or hay fever. Triggers such as cold air, infections, irritating chemicals, dyes and fragrances, and stress can worsen AD symptoms.

Severe AD causes inflamed, red, and itchy skin. When scratched, the skin may weep a clear fluid. Because the skin is being opened during scratching, it also increases the risk of developing additional skin infections. Patients may also experience red or gray plaques on their skin or small itchy bumps. Outside of physical symptoms, those with severe AD may also experience anxiety and depression, sleep difficulties, and other psychological issues. For example, up to 70% of surveyed children in Canada experienced sleep loss. Because of this, it is necessary to find additional effective treatment options for these children.