ABROCITINIB
Background and Date of Approval
The U.S. FDA approved Abrocitinib on 9 September 2021 for moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis in adults. The JADE Phase 3 trial (2020) evaluated safety and efficacy of Abrocitinib, an oral Janus kinase 1 (JAK1) inhibitor, in adults with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis. The study included an active control arm with dupilumab and demonstrated that Abrocitinib significantly improved skin clearance, disease extent, severity, and itch compared to placebo.
Uses
It helps to improve sleep disturbance due to itchiness and overall quality of life. It aids in improving the symptoms of anxiety and depression associated with atopic dermatitis. Abrocitinib is used to treat patients with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis or atopic eczema, a chronic skin disease.
How is it administered?
Abrocitinib is available in the form of tablets in doses of 100mg and 200mg. Your healthcare provider will calculate the ideal dose according to your condition.
Side Effects
During treatment with Abrocitinib, patients may experience a range of common adverse effects including nausea, cold sores, vomiting, upper abdominal pain, dizziness, acne, and elevated blood creatine phosphokinase levels.
Warnings
Inform your doctor if you're allergic to Abrocitinib, lactose, or any of the ingredients present in the medicine. Consult your doctor if you have a serious infection (tuberculosis) or severe liver problem before using the medicine. It is recommended that you inform your doctor if you are using any immunosuppressant or any other medicine. Inform your doctor if you have a plan to vaccinate or have been recently vaccinated. Consult your doctor if you have a blood clot in the vein of the legs or lungs, a heart problem, or cancer.
Precautions
Laboratory abnormalities: Laboratory monitoring is recommended due to potential changes in platelets, lymphocytes, and lipids. Immunisations: Avoid the use of live vaccines prior to, during, and immediately after Abrocitinib treatment. Age-related considerations: The safety and efficacy of the medicine in children below 12 years of age have not been established. Inform your doctor if you are a patient who is 65 years or older. It may increase the risk of infection, heart attack, and certain types of cancer in such patients.
Word of Advice
Drinking enough water is recommended to compensate for the water loss during vomiting. It is recommended to avoid eating junk or oily foods, which can worsen the adverse effects of the drug in patients. Applying a cold compress may reduce the pain and inflammation caused by the cold sores. Consult your doctor if you are going for a blood test; the medicine can interfere with the results obtained by the patients. It is recommended to lie down and take a few minutes of rest until the dizziness passes.
References
Pfizer Manufacturing Deutschland GmbH, European Medicines Agency (EMA), [Revised on 18 July 2024] [Accessed on 21 May 2024], QRD Human Product Information Template (medicines.org.uk) Sanofi-aventis,. US Food and Drug Administration, FDA [Revised on Jan 2022] [Accessed on 21st May 2024], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2022/213871s000lbl.pdf
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take Abrocitinib if I have tuberculosis?
No, it is recommended to speak with your doctor if you have a tuberculosis infection. You can also speak with your doctor to perform a tuberculosis screening to ensure the safe use of the drug.
Can I take a blood test while using Abrocitinib?
Consult your doctor if you are going for a blood test; the medicine can interfere with the results obtained by the patients. It may raise the creatine phosphokinase level in the blood.
Is Abrocitinib safe for elders?
Inform your doctor if you are a patient who is at the age of 65 years or above; it may increase the risk of infection, heart attack, and certain types of cancer in such patients.