Anti-IL-4/IL-13 antibody (Dupilumab)

Abstract

Dupilumab is a biologic medicine that has been approved for coverage in 2019 for the treatment of asthma in patients aged 12 years and older. Its use in children is increasing. In adults, it is also indicated for atopic dermatitis and chronic sinusitis with nasal polyps. Because dupilumab targets the basic pathophysiology of allergic inflammation, it is expected to be effective not only in these but also in a variety of other allergic diseases. In fact, numerous clinical studies have been conducted on dupilumab in various allergic diseases, and data have been accumulated showing that dupilumab is useful even in pediatric patients. On the other hand, dupilumab is an expensive drug, and its use requires a thorough understanding of its indications, adverse events, and precautions, as well as appropriate use in the right patients. Especially in pediatric patients, it is necessary to pay attention to data on long-term safety as well as efficacy.