Approximately 40% of U.S. adults living with atopic dermatitis, the most common form of eczema, have moderate to severe symptoms.
Severe eczema, which includes symptoms of itchy and dry skin, can be challenging to control. However, Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, a newer class of medications, may provide some relief.
When a person has eczema, something inside or outside the body triggers the immune system. In response, proteins called Janus kinases (JAK) begin the process of inflammation. Inflammation causes the discoloration and irritation of the skin.
JAK inhibitors prevent these signals from being delivered to your cells. Blocking this activity lowers inflammation and improves eczema symptoms.
Research suggests that JAK inhibitors quickly reduce itching, often within days. Over time, you may notice a significant improvement in your skin as well.
JAK inhibitors include:
- ruxolitinib (Opelzura)
- upadacitinib (Rinvoq)
- abrocitinib (Cibinqo)
Other JAK inhibitors are approved to treat different health conditions, like rheumatoid arthritis and ulcerative colitis. Additional JAK inhibitors are being tested and may receive approval for eczema treatment in the future.
How are JAK inhibitors prescribed?
Oral JAK inhibitors are a small molecule medication that come in pill form, such as upadacitinib (Rinvoq) or abrocitinib (Cibinqo), and may be used to treat moderate to severe forms of eczema.
JAK inhibitors are also available as a topical treatment, such as ruxolitinib (Opelzura). If you have severe eczema, a topical JAK inhibitor that you can apply to your skin may help. However, you may need another systemic treatment as well.
How do I know if I’m a candidate for this treatment?
Your doctor will consider the severity of your eczema when deciding if a JAK inhibitor may be right for you. This includes:
- how often you experience eczema flares
- how much of your body is affected by eczema
- how you’ve responded to previous treatments
- how eczema impacts your quality of life
- other medical conditions or medications you’re taking
Medications known as biologics are sometimes used to treat severe eczema. Biologics also target specific parts of your immune system to reduce inflammation. However, JAK inhibitors target a different and broader part of your immune system. This means they may be effective, even if biologics haven’t worked for you in the past.
What are the side effects or risks associated with JAK inhibitors?
JAK inhibitors are generally considered safe and well-tolerated. Common side effects include:
- cold-like symptoms
- headache
- nausea
- diarrhea
Because JAK inhibitors suppress immune system response, they can increase your risk of infection, such as upper respiratory or urinary tract infections. A topical JAK inhibitor may also cause hives, skin discoloration, or pimples. Less frequently, some people taking JAK inhibitors have developed severe illnesses like tuberculosis.
Though rare, other adverse events have been reported after using JAK inhibitors, such as blood clots, abnormal blood counts, or changes in kidney and liver functions.
If severe eczema symptoms affect your quality of life, a JAK inhibitor may be a good option. Talk with your doctor to find the best treatment for you.