Authors' objectives:

To summarise the current research evidence on new products for atopic dermatitis.

Authors' recommendations: - Clinical impact: The results of the comparative trials with corticosteroids and other second and third line therapies are required before impact can be assessed. It is difficult to estimate the number or proportion of people with atopic dermatitis who may benefit from these new therapies either with short-term or long-term usage, but it could be significant. These therapies may turn out to be steroid sparing and pimecrolimus, at least, can be used on skin where steroids are contraindicated. - Service impact: It is likely that these treatments will initially be used by specialists and will not make a significant service impact. If these formulations are proven in clinical use the diffusion from specialists to primary care should be anticipated. The availability of topical immunosuppressants may lead to a reduction in hospitalisation rates. - Patient issues: There is widespread fear and dislike of corticosteroids so there may be pressure, especially from patients of children with dermatitis, to try these new formulations. - Financial and overall NHS impact: The new topical immunomodulators have the potential for a large impact on NHS pharmaceutical spending. Although the cost per course is unknown at present it is likely to be more than the generically available corticosteroids and emollients. At best, they may increase compliance in therapy for atopic eczema which may in turn reduce the need for continuous visits to GPs and generate cost savings. Alternatively they could replace cheap treatment options.

Authors' methods: Overview

Project Status: Completed

Year Published: 2001

URL for published report: http://www.hsric.nihr.ac.uk/search

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: England, United Kingdom

Organisation Name: NIHR Horizon Scanning Centre

Contact Address: The NIHR Horizon Scanning Centre, Department of Public Health, Epidemiology, and Biostatistics, School of Health and Population Sciences, University of Birmingham, 90 Vincent Drive, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2SP. United Kingdom. Tel: +44 121 414 7831, Fax: +44 121 2269

Contact Name: c.packer@bham.ac.uk

Contact Email: c.packer@bham.ac.uk

Copyright: National Horizon Scanning Centre