Medicine in Drug Discovery (Dec 2023)
Unveiling abrocitinib: A thorough examination of the 2022 USFDA-approved treatment for atopic dermatitis (AD)
Abstract
Abrocitinib stands as a targeted therapy, functioning as an inhibitor of Janus kinase (JAK) 1. This pharmaceutical advancement has been meticulously crafted to address the challenges of moderate to severe atopic dermatitis (AD), a prevalent skin ailment in developed nations. Introduced in 2022, Abrocitinib emerged as a cutting-edge addition to its therapeutic category, gaining approval for utilization within the United States. Diverging from its predecessors in the realm of moderate to severe AD treatment, Abrocitinib distinguishes itself through its heightened specificity. Moreover, its tablet formulation facilitates straightforward administration, offering diverse dosage options. An additional noteworthy feature is its applicability to individuals aged 12 and above, making it an option for alleviating symptoms in this demographic. Within this comprehensive assessment, key aspects such as the biological target of the drug, developmental strategies, mode of operation, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, clinical trial insights, contraindications, potential interactions with other medications, and adverse reactions are examined. In light of the overarching perspective and available clinical evidence, Abrocitinib emerges as a promising orally bioavailable therapeutic, authorized for treating AD. Notably, it gained its initial approval in Japan for patients aged 12 years and older, marking a significant advancement in the realm of dermatological care.