Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)

How Medication Can Improve Atopic Dermatitis

People with atopic dermatitis are encouraged to adopt healthy skincare habits, including daily moisturizing and using appropriate soap to prevent irritation. However, many people use medication to manage their eczema, and there are a few available options to consider:

• Topical Medications – Topical corticosteroid medications come in multiple forms, including creams, lotions, gels, and ointments. These medications reduce inflammation and treat the itching that often accompanies atopic dermatitis. 

• Antibiotics – Repeated scratching can lead to broken skin, which can result in an infection. Accordingly, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to treat bacterial infections that occur because of damage to the skin. 

• Oral Anti-Inflammatories – When eczema is more severe, oral anti-inflammatory medication may be recommended. These medications carry a risk of significant side effects, so they are usually only prescribed for short periods.

Doctors may also recommend injectable medications if atopic dermatitis does not respond to these treatments. These biologics aim to correct the immune system response that causes skin issues in people with eczema.