Third Times's a Charm: Reflections as I Begin Another New Biologic Treatment

These days, it seems like there's a new treatment for atopic dermatitis almost every other day. While I don't mean this literally, the recent surge in FDA announcements about new eczema drugs can be both exciting and overwhelming.

Navigating the evolving eczema treatment landscape

Not all medications are created equal. They come in various forms, including topicals, orals, and injectables. While topical treatments are the most common and longest-standing, there are many new forms of treatments becoming more and more prevalent for atopic dermatitis. Each treatment type comes with its own set of advantages and drawbacks.

Deciding what is right for you...and when

Choosing when to start and stop a treatment, and which one to choose, can be challenging. I'm currently starting my third type of biologic injectable. You might wonder why I’m bothering with a third one if the first two didn't work effectively. Allow me to reflect on my journey and share the experiences that influenced my decision-making process.

A long road of topical treatments

In my journey with eczema, I've tried nearly every classification of treatment available. For many years, corticosteroids (steroids) were the only option. Despite the controversy surrounding it, steroids were a lifeline for me during severe flare-ups. Despite it not really managing my symptoms, I had nothing else to choose from, even though my doctor cautioned against long-term use of higher strengths.

Trials, errors, and staying hopeful

As soon as new therapies became available, I eagerly tried them. I participated in clinical trials for new topical calcineurin inhibitors under my dermatologist’s supervision. Although this treatment did not provide relief, I remained hopeful. Desperation often drives us to try anything.

Almost 20 years later, my current dermatologist prescribed the same drug from the clinical trial. Despite its previous ineffectiveness, I decided to keep an open mind. Circumstances change, and finding effective treatments for eczema requires trial and error. For the past few years, I've been using the topical calcineurin inhibitor on specific parts of my body to help prevent flares. While it isn't perfect, it’s safe, doesn’t sting or burn, and is convenient.

The rise of biologic treatments for eczema

When biologic treatments first came to market, I didn’t waste a moment to try! While the treatment provided relief to certain parts of my eczema, there were some challenges, so together with my dermatologist, I made the decision to stop. Fast forward a few years, a new type of biologic became available. Although it was quite similar, this new one targeted one of the interleukins, whereas the previous one targeted two. Is there truth to the saying, sometimes less is more? I used it for a few years but eventually decided to stop and try a completely different treatment plan. Recently, a new biologic was approved, and my dermatologist suggested it. At this point, my motto is – nothing ventured, nothing gained, so it’s worth a shot! Then we wait and see how it plays out, weighing the pros and cons of its efficacy.

What has this journey taught me?

This open-minded approach extends to new treatments suggested by my dermatologist. Adaptability and persistence are crucial when dealing with atopic dermatitis. Throughout this experience, I have learned the importance of keeping an open mind and being willing to retry treatments as new options emerge and circumstances evolve.