What is the new treatment option for young children and babies with moderate to severe eczema?

### New Treatment for Moderate to Severe Eczema in Young Children and Babies Parents of young children and babies with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis (eczema) now have a new treatment option. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Dupixent (dupilumab) in June 2022 for children aged 6 months to 5 years who haven't found relief with prescription corticosteroid creams or ointments. Dupixent is a once-monthly injection that parents can administer at home. Atopic dermatitis is a common condition, affecting more than 1 in 10 Americans, and it often develops before the age of 5. For children with milder cases, gentle baths followed by moisturizer can help, and over-the-counter remedies like petroleum jelly or mild corticosteroid creams can sometimes control symptoms. However, for moderate to severe cases, these treatments may not be enough. Dupixent is part of a family of medicines known as biologics, which are derived from living cells or tissues and target specific parts of the immune system. It works by blocking a type of protein called an interleukin, which helps calm the overactive immune system that contributes to eczema. In clinical trials, more than half of the children treated with both Dupixent and topical corticosteroids experienced a 75% reduction in disease severity. Additionally, 28% of children achieved nearly clear skin, and 48% experienced a significant reduction in itching. While Dupixent has shown a good safety profile, some side effects include hand, foot, and mouth disease and skin papillomas. These side effects did not cause children to stop treatment. The long-term need for Dupixent in young children is still uncertain. Some children may outgrow their eczema, while others might need ongoing treatment. Parents should consult their doctor to determine if Dupixent is a suitable option for their child's eczema. Overall, Dupixent offers a promising new option for young children with moderate to severe eczema, especially when other treatments have failed.