Eczema pills
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Eczema Pills: A Comprehensive Review of Oral Treatments
Introduction to Eczema and Oral Treatments
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by itchy, red, and swollen skin. While topical treatments are commonly used, oral treatments are gaining attention for their potential to manage symptoms more effectively, especially in moderate to severe cases. This article reviews the efficacy and safety of various oral treatments for eczema, including evening primrose oil, borage oil, Simiao pill, Janus kinase inhibitors, and antibiotics.
Evening Primrose Oil and Borage Oil for Eczema
Lack of Efficacy in Clinical Trials
Evening primrose oil (EPO) and borage oil (BO) have been explored as treatments for eczema due to their gamma-linolenic acid content. However, a comprehensive review of 27 studies involving 1596 participants found that neither EPO nor BO significantly improved eczema symptoms compared to placebos. The studies showed no significant difference in symptom improvement as reported by both participants and medical doctors. Additionally, these oils were associated with mild, transient gastrointestinal side effects, and long-term use could pose risks such as inflammation and immunosuppression.
Simiao Pill Combined with Halometasone Cream
Enhanced Efficacy and Quality of Life
A study involving 195 patients with chronic eczema evaluated the combination of Simiao pill and halometasone cream. The results indicated that this combination significantly improved eczema severity and quality of life compared to halometasone cream alone. The total clinical effective rate was notably higher in the group receiving the combination treatment (88.8% vs. 70.1%). The combination also reduced serum levels of leukotriene B4 (LTB4) and thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP), which are associated with inflammation.
Janus Kinase (JAK) Inhibitors: Abrocitinib
Promising Results in Adolescents
Abrocitinib, a JAK1-selective inhibitor, has shown promise in treating moderate to severe eczema in adolescents. A randomized clinical trial involving 285 participants aged 12 to 17 years demonstrated that abrocitinib, in combination with topical therapy, significantly improved eczema symptoms. The study reported higher rates of achieving clear or almost clear skin and a 75% improvement in the Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI-75) compared to placebo. However, nausea was a common side effect, and long-term impacts need further investigation.
Antibiotics for Clinically Infected Eczema
Limited Efficacy in Mild Cases
The use of antibiotics for clinically infected eczema in children has been scrutinized. A randomized controlled trial involving 113 children found that neither oral nor topical antibiotics significantly improved eczema severity compared to placebos. The study suggested that antibiotics might not be necessary for mild clinically infected eczema, emphasizing the importance of topical steroids and emollients in managing flares .
Conclusion
While oral treatments for eczema offer potential benefits, their efficacy varies. Evening primrose oil and borage oil have not shown significant improvements in clinical trials. In contrast, the combination of Simiao pill and halometasone cream has demonstrated enhanced efficacy. Abrocitinib, a JAK1 inhibitor, shows promise but requires further long-term studies. Antibiotics may not be effective for mild clinically infected eczema, highlighting the need for appropriate use of topical treatments. Future research should focus on long-term safety and efficacy to better guide treatment decisions for eczema patients.
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