A Comparative Review of Biologics for the Treatment of Atopic Dermatitis

Abstract

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that significantly impacts a patient's quality of life. Biologic therapies present some targeted and effective treatment options when conventional treatments completely fail. This study assesses how effective biologics for AD in Pakistan are, how safe they are, how expensive they are, how accessible they are, and how they are administered, and how they function, compared. A systematic review analyzed all published clinical trials, regulatory approvals, and real-world evidence to comprehensively evaluate the potential of Dupilumab (Dupixent), Tralokinumab (Adtralza), Secukinumab (Cosentyx, Fraizeron), and Ixekizumab (Taltz) as therapies. Dupilumab and tralokinumab, both currently FDA-approved for moderate-to-severe AD therapy, strongly proved to be highly effective by blocking IL-4 and IL-13, or simply IL-13, respectively. Secukinumab and ixekizumab, both IL-17 inhibitors which are used primarily for psoriasis, have been of little value in the treatment of AD as well as are utilized off-label to a modest extent. As suggested by cost analysis, the cost of tralokinumab, roughly PKR 460,000, creates affordability barriers as well as limits access. Dupilumab is still the drug of choice since it is efficacious and safe, but bi-weekly dosing can impact patient adherence. The study highlights that Pakistan desperately needs affordable biologic options. Pakistan also needs enhanced patient access programs.