Expanding the Topical Therapeutic Landscape for Atopic Dermatitis: A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Pharmacology
• Inflammatory Diseases

Background:

• Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a prevalent chronic inflammatory skin condition.
• Current treatments like topical corticosteroids (TCS) and topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCIs) have limitations.
• Recent FDA approvals introduce novel topical agents for AD management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent topical therapeutic advancements for atopic dermatitis.
• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of new AD treatments compared to existing ones.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review methodology adhering to PRISMA and AHRQ guidelines.
• Searches of FDALabel, PubMed, and ClinicalTrials.gov databases.
• Data collection on topical agents approved for AD between April 2020 and April 2025.

Main Results:

• 52 non-generic, prescription topical agents are FDA-approved for AD.
• Newer agents include Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) modulators, and phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitors.
• These novel agents represent a significant therapeutic innovation.

Conclusions:

• Recent years have seen significant innovations in AD topical therapies.
• Novel JAK inhibitors, AhR modulators, and PDE4 inhibitors offer improved treatment options.
• Integration of these therapies can enhance patient outcomes and quality of life.