A New Approach to Symptom Relief in Atopic Dermatitis: The Role of Upadacitinib

Abstract

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common, chronic
inflammatory disease that affects millions of individuals
worldwide. It is characterized by intense itching,
recurrent eczematous lesions, and a relapsing-remitting
course, all of which significantly impair quality of life.
Conventional
treatments,
including
topical
corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, and systemic
immunosuppressants, often provide only partial relief or
carry risks of adverse effects with prolonged use. The
limited efficacy and safety concerns associated with
existing therapies have driven interest in targeted
approaches that address the underlying immune
dysregulation. One such strategy involves inhibition of
the Janus kinase (JAK)–signal transducer and activator
of transcription (STAT) pathway, which plays a key role
in transmitting inflammatory cytokine signals involved
in AD pathogenesis. Upadacitinib, a selective JAK1
inhibitor initially approved for immune-mediated
conditions
such as rheumatoid arthritis and
inflammatory bowel disease, has recently gained
approval for moderate-to-severe AD, representing a
promising addition to the list of current treatment
options