Baricitinib for treating atopic dermatitis in children and adolescents

Baricitinib is currently in clinical development for the treatment of moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (AD) in children and adolescents. AD is a common, long-term (chronic) inflammatory skin condition that results in patches of redness, itchiness, and scaling of the skin. In moderate-to-severe cases of AD, the patches cover a large area of the skin and can be associated with intense itch. The quality of life for children with AD has been shown to be reduced due to sleep disturbances, anxiety, depression and low self-esteem. Flare-up of the disease, where the symptoms are more severe can be triggered by factors such as stress, allergies, skin irritants and heat. Current treatment regimens including the frequent application of topical creams, can be complex, uncomfortable, and stressful for children with AD and their caregivers. There is a need for additional treatment options for children and adolescents with AD to reduce the severity of symptoms associated with the disease and improve their quality of life.