Balancing efficacy and safety in the management of atopic dermatitis: the role of methylprednisolone aceponate

Abstract

Although emollients can be sufficient to manage mild atopic dermatitis (AD), acute flares resulting in moderate-to-severe symptoms require treatment with anti-inflammatory agents, such as topical corticosteroids (TCs) and topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCIs). This review examines the role of a member of the newest class of TCs, the fourth-generation compound methylprednisolone aceponate (MPA) in AD management, with reference to the chemical structure, pharmacokinetics, efficacy in AD, safety assessed in preclinical and clinical trials and dosing considerations. MPA has an optimized efficacy/safety profile with minimal local or systemic adverse effects. In addition, it offers the opportunity for once-daily dosing, which provides benefits in terms of patient compliance with treatment.