Here at Texas Dermatology, one of our favorite ways to contribute to the medical field is by conducting clinical trials meant to aid the advancement of medicine. What makes this more exciting is when a drug we’ve personally tested is approved by the Food and Drug Administration and made accessible to the public. A great example of this would be Opzelura: a breakthrough topical in dermatology.
What is Opzelura?
Opzelura (also referred to as Ruxolitinib) is a topical cream created for the short-term and non-continuous treatment of chronic forms of mild to moderate atopic dermatitis. It’s important to note that this cream is designed for non-immunocompromised adults and other patients 12 years or older. These patients ideally have also not responded fully to other available topical prescriptions or have been advised against such therapies.
How Does Opzelura Work?
Opzelura works by blocking the enzymes JAK1 and JAK2. The National Eczema Association describes these enzymes as directly contributing to inflammation in the skin, itch, and skin barrier function. Opzelura reduces the activity of the enzymes, thus resulting in a significant reduction in the signs and symptoms of atopic dermatitis. Around 50% of patients achieved what’s referred to as IGA-TS or Investigator Global Assessment-Treatment Success. This means that these patients were clear or almost clear by the end of the clinical trial due to the continuous use of Opzelura.
This topical cream is also the first and only FDA-approved treatment which aids in individuals with nonsegmental vitiligo, a disease which causes loss of pigment in patches of the skin. About 50% of patients using Opzelura have reported significant re-pigmentation after about one year of use.
To learn more about Opzelura and its uses as well as safety information, click here. You can also contact us at (210) 829-5180 or visit our website to book an appointment online. Because we’re here to help you live a more present and healthy life, our team is committed to continuing our work in helping to advance medicine so that we can continue to present medical wins like Opzulura!
Resources:
https://www.everydayhealth.com/vitiligo/fda-approves-new-vitiligo-treatment-ruxolitinib-opzelura/
