Dupilumab: human monoclonal antibody against IL-4Rα for moderate to severe atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is one of the most common skin disorders with a prevalence of about 20% in children and affecting adults in significant numbers. Moderate to severe AD significantly impairs a patient's quality of life with severe pruritus as a major issue that impairs sleep and contributes to major psychological disturbances. Detailed studies of its pathogenesis have revealed that immune mechanisms are involved including activation of T helper type 2 cells (Th2). Dupilumab is a fully human Ig4 monoclonal antibody directed against the interleukin-4 receptor subunit alpha (IL-4R alpha) of IL-4 and IL-13 receptors. In clinical studies it has been demonstrated to significantly reduce the molecular signature in the skin of patients with AD and to significantly reduce the clinical manifestations of moderate to severe AD. It also very importantly significantly reduces the pruritus of moderate to severe AD thus improving the patients' quality of life. Dupilumab is administered by subcutaneous injection every other week. It was approved by the FDA in March 2017 for the treatment of moderate to severe AD.