A new consensus in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology recommends advanced nonsteroidal topicals — topical JAK inhibitors, aryl hydrocarbon receptor agonists, and PDE‑4 inhibitors — as frontline therapy for AD over traditional topical corticosteroids.
In an interview with Next Steps in Derm, author Christopher Bunick, MD, PhD, shares the panel’s evidence‑based process, graded recommendations, and practical implications for clinic.
Why this matters:
- These agents offer improved efficacy and safety vs. steroids, especially on thin or sensitive skin (face, folds, genitalia).
- They better control itch, inflammation, and barrier dysfunction — translating to real gains in sleep and quality of life.
- Their safety profile supports longer‑term use and easier patient adherence.
- The consensus provides actionable guidance on where nonsteroidal topicals fit alongside biologics and small molecules.
This interview is a must‑read to update your treatment algorithms and patient counseling.
