Everything You Need to Know About Dupixent (Dupilimab) Therapy for Eczema
Uncover the science, effectiveness, and considerations of Dupixent for eczema treatment.
Key Takeaways
Introduction - The Power of Dupixent
Living with eczema can be a daunting experience. The relentless itch, inflamed skin, and sleepless nights are more than just an inconvenience. For moderate-to-severe eczema sufferers, finding the right treatment is crucial. Dupixent (dupilumab) is one such option, offering hope and relief to many patients. This comprehensive guide will provide an in-depth overview of Dupixent, shedding light on everything you need to know about this medication, from the prescribing process to side effects, and the course of therapy.
What is Dupixent?
Dupixent is a prescription medication used for the treatment of moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis, commonly known as eczema, in adults and children aged six months and older. Besides eczema, Dupixent also serves as a treatment for severe asthma and chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps in specific age groups.
The Science Behind Dupixent
The effectiveness of Dupixent lies in its ability to block two proteins: interleukin-4 (IL-4) and interleukin-13 (IL-13). These proteins play pivotal roles in the immune system's reaction to allergens and other triggers, contributing significantly to the development of conditions like eczema, asthma, and chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps.
Starting Dupixent Therapy: The Prescribing Process
As Dupixent is a prescription medication, you will need to consult with your healthcare provider or dermatologist to determine if this treatment is suitable for you. Your healthcare provider will consider factors such as the severity of your condition, your overall health status, and any other medications you're currently taking.
The Dupixent Treatment Regime
Once prescribed, Dupixent is administered as a subcutaneous injection (under the skin). The initial dose usually involves two 300 mg injections, delivered two weeks apart. Following this, a maintenance dose of 300 mg is given either every two weeks or four weeks, depending on your age and weight.
What to Expect When Starting Dupixent
When initiating Dupixent treatment, you may experience some side effects. Most commonly, patients report injection site reactions (such as redness, swelling, and itching), upper respiratory tract infections, joint pain, and herpes viral infections (such as cold sores or shingles).