Treatment of AD with Abrocitinib

Atopic dermatitis (AD) management may require the use of a systemic medication such as abrocitinib (Cibinqo), which is a targeted Janus kinase (JAK) 1 inhibitor that suppresses aberrant T helper 2 (Th2) signaling present in AD pathogenesis. Unique features that distinguish abrocitinib from other systemic treatments for AD include its oral route of administration, once daily dosing, approval for use in all adults, and lack of conjunctivitis as a reported side effect in clinical trials. Notably, seven phase II and phase III clinical trials have each shown that abrocitinib achieved superior clinical efficacy compared to placebo as measured through disease severity scales and worst reported itch—including one clinical trial that showed improved short-term AD outcomes compared to dupilumab use. Coupled with minimal lab monitoring once the drug is initiated, abrocitinib can be considered as a systemic option in patients with moderate-to-severe AD to achieve their treatment goals.