Dupixent: A Breakthrough in Atopic Dermatitis Treatment Atopic Dermatitis (AD), commonly known as Eczema, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that affects around 15-20% of children and 1-3% of adults worldwide. It is characterized by itching, redness, and scaly patches on the skin, and can significantly impact the quality of life of those affected. Until recently, systemic medications for AD were limited and had various side effects, but the introduction of Dupixent (dupilumab) by Sanofi and Regeneron has revolutionized the AD treatment landscape. Uses: Dupixent is a monoclonal antibody that works by blocking the action of two proteins, interleukin-4 (IL-4) and interleukin-13 (IL-13), which are involved in the immune response and inflammation. This mechanism is beneficial in treating atopic dermatitis, asthma, chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps, and eosinophilic esophagitis. Dupixent is mainly used to treat moderate to severe AD in adults and children aged six years and above, which is uncontrolled with topical corticosteroids or where other systemic therapies are not suitable. Dosage: The dosage of Dupixent for AD treatment depends on the patient's age and weight. For adults, the recommended dosage is 600 mg administered subcutaneously (under the skin) every two weeks after the initial dose of 400 mg. For children aged 12 to 17 years old, the starting dosage is 400 mg followed by 200mg every two weeks. For younger children between the ages of six and 11 years, the dosage varies according to weight. The healthcare professional should calculate the correct dosage for each patient. Dupixent is packaged as a single-dose pre-filled syringe or pen. Demographic: Dupixent has been approved by the US Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) for use in adults and children aged six years and older with moderate to severe AD. It is also approved for use in the European Union, Canada, Japan, Switzerland, and other countries. Dupixent is not recommended for people with a history of a hypersensitivity reaction or those with active tuberculosis. The safety and efficacy of Dupixent in pregnant and breastfeeding women are not established, so caution is advised. Side Effects: Dupixent's most common side effects include injection site reactions (redness, itching, swelling), conjunctivitis, eye and eyelid inflammation, and cold sores. These are usually mild to moderate in severity and don't require treatment. Serious side effects are rare but include allergic reactions, shingles, and herpes infections. Patients should inform their healthcare provider immediately if they experience fever, cough, or other signs of infection. Regular monitoring of Dupixent-treated patients is necessary to detect any unexpected adverse effects. Interactions: Dupixent has no known drug interactions. However, it's recommended to consult a healthcare professional before taking any new medication to avoid any unexpected effects or interactions. Generic Options: At the time of writing, there is no generic equivalent to Dupixent available on the market. However, the patent for Dupixent expires in 2023, and Sanofi and Regeneron are reportedly working on creating a biosimilar version for future use. In conclusion, Dupixent is a game-changer in the AD treatment landscape. It has proven to be safe and effective in controlling AD symptoms in both adults and children, with fewer side effects than traditional systemic therapies. Dupixent has undoubtedly opened up new possibilities for AD patients, improving their quality of life and providing hope for a brighter future.