With the recent listing of Rinvoq® on the PBS, the following ASCIA resources have been updated to include Dupixent® (dupilumab) and Rinvoq® (upadacitinib) treatments for severe eczema:

• ASCIA Eczema FAQ www.allergy.org.au/patients/skin-allergy/eczema

• ASCIA Action Plan for Eczema https://www.allergy.org.au/patients/skin-allergy/eczema-action-plan

• ASCIA Stepwise Management Plan for Eczema https://www.allergy.org.au/hp/papers/ascia-stepwise-management-plan-for-eczema

Both plans are also available at https://www.allergy.org.au/hp/ascia-plans-action-and-treatment#r4a

The FAQ has been updated with the following information under ‘Q 9: How should eczema flares and severe eczema be treated?.’

If prescribed, use a recently listed treatment for severe eczema. There are now two treatments for severe eczema that are listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) in Australia for people aged 12 years or older with severe eczema which has not responded to other prescribed topical treatments:

• Dupixent® (dupilumab) is an immune modulating treatment given by injection that is self-administered. Dupilumab works by modifying the body’s immune response to prevent inflammation that plays a central role in eczema, but it is not an immunosuppressant.
• Rinvoq® (upadacitinib) is a Janus Kinase 1 (JAK1) inhibitor, that is taken as an oral tablet. JAK enzymes create signals in the body's immune system that result in inflammation, so JAK inhibitors work by blocking these signals. This reduces inflammation and the production of immune cells within the body.

It is important to ask your clinical immunology/allergy specialist or dermatologist to see if you are eligible for one of these treatments for severe eczema, which target different parts of the immune system.

This news item was issued on 23 March 2022 by Jill Smith, CEO of the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA). ASCIA is the peak professional body for clinical immunology and allergy in Australia and New Zealand.