3 New Injections for Eczema: What to Know Before You Switch Treatments
Struggling with eczema flare-ups that just won’t go away—no matter how many creams or steroids you’ve tried? You’re not alone. For people with moderate to severe eczema, injection-based therapies are offering new hope where traditional treatments fall short.
These cutting-edge injectable medications work deep within the immune system to calm inflammation and restore skin health. Here’s what they are, how they work, and when they may be the right next step for you.
Why Injections Are Changing the Game for Eczema
Topical creams and moisturizers are helpful for mild eczema, but when symptoms become chronic, widespread, or resistant to surface-level treatments, systemic therapies are often needed. That’s where injectable biologics come in.
These medications don’t just treat the skin—they target immune system dysfunction, which is the root cause of eczema. Instead of applying relief to the outside, they work from the inside out to reduce flare-ups, itching, and inflammation over time.
Injections are typically used for moderate to severe atopic dermatitis that hasn’t responded to other treatments. They’re administered either at a clinic or via self-injection at home, depending on the medication.
1. Dupixent (dupilumab)
Dupixent is the first FDA-approved biologic injection for moderate to severe eczema. It works by blocking key proteins—IL-4 and IL-13—that fuel inflammation in eczema-prone skin. This helps break the flare-up cycle and reduce symptoms long term.
Many patients see noticeable improvement in itching, redness, and skin clearing within weeks, and results often continue to improve over several months. It's approved for both adults and children as young as 6 months.
While it's not a cure, Dupixent has become a first-line injectable treatment and has a strong safety profile. Side effects can include eye irritation and injection site reactions, but many users tolerate it well.
2. Adbry (tralokinumab)
Adbry is a newer monoclonal antibody designed specifically for adults with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis. It targets interleukin-13 (IL-13)—a cytokine that plays a central role in skin inflammation.
What sets Adbry apart is its specificity: by focusing solely on IL-13 (rather than both IL-4 and IL-13 like Dupixent), it may offer a better side-effect profile for certain users. Clinical studies have shown it significantly reduces itching, skin lesions, and flare frequency.
Patients typically receive Adbry injections every two weeks after a loading dose. It's a good option for those who need long-term maintenance without systemic steroids.
3. Cibinqo (abrocitinib)
Technically taken as a pill but included here due to its systemic nature and rising popularity as an injectable-class alternative, Cibinqo targets JAK1 enzymes, which regulate immune signaling pathways in eczema.
This therapy is recommended for adults with severe atopic dermatitis who haven’t responded to topical or biologic treatments. Though not an injection, its internal targeting places it in the same conversation—and it's often used when injections aren’t well tolerated or accessible.
Clinical trials have shown rapid improvement in symptoms, sometimes within the first week. Side effects may include nausea, headache, or an increased risk of infection, so careful monitoring is advised.
When to Consider Injections Over Creams or Steroids
Injectable therapies are ideal for those with:
- Frequent or widespread flare-ups
- Minimal results from topicals or phototherapy
- Severe itching impacting sleep or daily life
- Long-term concerns about steroid overuse
Injections offer consistency and relief without the daily hassle of cream reapplication. They’re also often covered by insurance with prior authorization, especially when topical therapies have been exhausted.
However, injections may not be right for everyone—cost, comfort with needles, or specific health conditions could influence the decision.
Final Thoughts
If your eczema has become more than just a skin issue—if it’s interfering with your life, your sleep, or your self-confidence—it may be time to look into injectable treatments. New options like Dupixent, Adbry, and Cibinqo are offering targeted, long-lasting relief where old methods fall short.
Talk to your dermatologist about whether a biologic or systemic medication could finally bring you the consistent relief you deserve.
Sources
Dupixent – https://www.dupixent.com
Adbry – https://www.adbry.com
Cibinqo – https://www.cibinqo.com
National Eczema Association – https://nationaleczema.org
FDA Drug Approvals – https://www.fda.gov/drugs