Real-world effectiveness of abrocitinib treatment in patients with difficult-to-treat atopic dermatitis

J I Olydam1, A R Schlösser1, P Custurone1

  • 1Department of Dermatology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.

Abstract

Insights

Abrocitinib effectively treats moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (AD) in real-world settings, even for patients who failed other advanced therapies. This JAK-1 inhibitor significantly reduces disease severity and itch, demonstrating its value in difficult-to-treat cases.

Area of Science:

  • Dermatology
  • Pharmacology
  • Clinical Research

Background:

  • Abrocitinib is a JAK-1 selective inhibitor approved for moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (AD).
  • Real-world data on abrocitinib for patients with prior advanced systemic therapy is limited.
  • Understanding its effectiveness in difficult-to-treat AD populations is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the real-world effectiveness and safety of abrocitinib in patients with difficult-to-treat AD.
  • To evaluate outcomes in a standard care setting for patients with a history of advanced systemic treatments.

Main Methods:

  • Prospective, observational, single-center study.
  • Inclusion of AD patients initiating abrocitinib between April 2021 and December 2022.
  • Assessment of effectiveness via clinician- and patient-reported outcomes and evaluation of adverse events.

Main Results:

  • Forty-one patients were included, with 73.2% having prior treatment failures on targeted therapies (JAK inhibitors, biologics).
  • Abrocitinib showed significant reductions in EASI scores (p < 0.001) and NRS itch (p < 0.001) over a median follow-up of 25 weeks.
  • Common adverse events included gastrointestinal issues (27.6%), acne (20.7%), and respiratory infections (17.2%); 39% discontinued treatment.

Conclusions:

  • Abrocitinib demonstrates effectiveness in managing moderate-to-severe AD in daily clinical practice.
  • The drug is a viable option for patients with difficult-to-treat AD, including those unresponsive to other targeted therapies.
  • Real-world data supports abrocitinib's role in advanced AD management.

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