Dupilumab in Dermatology: Potential for Uses Beyond Atopic Dermatitis

Dupilumab inhibits the interleukin-4 receptor subunit α and is FDA approved for treatment of moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis. It is a relatively new drug, and whether it is efficacious for other diseases in dermatology is an area of increasing interest. We searched the literature and ClinicalTrials.gov database for uses of dupilumab beyond atopic dermatitis in dermatology and for ongoing studies on new uses for dupilumab. Off-label reports identified described use of dupilumab for several different dermatologic conditions, including allergic contact dermatitis, hand dermatitis, chronic spontaneous urticaria, prurigo nodularis, and alopecia areata. Overall, there is limited but promising data for dupilumab use beyond atopic dermatitis in dermatology. The relatively safe adverse effect profile of dupilumab may make it an option for certain recalcitrant diseases in dermatology, but further studies will be needed to assess its efficacy and determine its best possible use. J Drugs Dermatol. 2019;18(10):1053-1055.