Off-label use of dupilumab for pediatric patients with atopic dermatitis: A multicenter retrospective review

Abstract

Background: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common, chronic type 2 inflammatory skin disease, typically starting in infancy, with increased risk for subsequent extracutaneous atopic morbidities. Dupilumab is the first biologic agent targeting type 2 inflammation approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (USFDA); it was licensed in 2017 for adults with moderate to severe AD and 2 years later for adolescents. Systemic treatment for pediatric AD remains a significant unmet medical need.

Objective: To analyze off-label use of dupilumab in children with AD.

Methods: Multicenter retrospective review that evaluated children who were prescribed dupilumab for moderate to severe AD.

Results: One hundred eleven of 124 patients (89.5%) gained access to dupilumab after a mean of 9 weeks. The dosing range was 4 to 15.5 mg/kg for the loading dose and 2.0 to 15.3 mg/kg every other week for maintenance. The range was widest for 6- to 11-year-olds and was related to use of either full or half of adult dosing. Associated morbidities, treatment response, and adverse events were comparable to those in previous adolescent and adult trials.

Limitations: The retrospective design of the study limited uniform data collection.

Conclusion: Access to dupilumab was achievable for the majority of children after a mean 9-week delay because of insurance payment denial. This review supports dupilumab response and tolerability in children. Optimal dosing for patients younger than 12 years has not been defined. Availability of the drug in 2 different concentrations is an important safety issue.

Keywords: atopic dermatitis; dupilumab access; dupilumab dosing; eczema; pediatric.