DermHelpCentral

Biologic Drigs as of March 2023

This is from Crutchfield Dermatology Website.

Dupilumab for Atopic Dermatitis

A landmark study reported in the New England Journal of Medicine highlights the efficacy of a new biologic drug, Dupilumab, for the treatment of atopic dermatitis.  This may be heralding a new era for patients with moderate to severe atopic eczema.

The New York Times had a glowing article on October 1, 2016, and the NEJM's article was published the same day. 

This is likely to be a great breakthough for many who suffer moderate to severe atopic dermatitis, but the drug company that makes is will likely play hardball with the pricing.  Most biologics today run ~ $50,000 a year.  Since Dupilumab may only be taken for four months, the price will be determined by a drug maker keen to maximize its profits.  The drug will only be affordable to patients with good insurance.  It will not be available to the uninsured or poorly insured.

Promotional photo in NY Times of an ecstatic patient

 

Xolair for Urticaria

Xolair has recently been approved for chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU).  The dose is 150 - 300 mg subcutaneously every 4 weeks.  It runs ~ $900 for 150 mg and $1800 for 300 mg of Xolair (omalizumab) and is being aggressively marketed.  This is a four page color flier that came with the August Archives of Dermatology.  It is also being advertised on T.V.

Is she frowning because of her urticaria or because her insurance will not approve it?