A drug to treat Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE) has been approved by the U.S. Federal Drug Administration. Dupixent (dupilumab) was found by the FDA to be suitable to treat the condition in those over 12 years of age who weigh more than 88 pounds. This groundbreaking approval marks the first time that a treatment has been authorized for Eosinophilic Esophagitis. Until now, one major focus of treatment plans for Eosinophilic Esophagitis has been eliminating certain foods from a patient’s diet to help reduce the swelling and irritation of the esophagus. The approval of Dupixent is a major milestone in helping those with Eosinophilic Esophagitis manage the condition.
What is Eosinophilic Esophagitis?
According to John Hopkins Medicine, “Eosinophilic Esophagitis is an allergic condition that happens when the esophagus becomes inflamed and does not contract properly, causing your esophagus to become narrowed and develop rings or abscesses.” Patients suffering from Eosinophilic Esophagitis may experience multiple symptoms, including difficulty swallowing, food getting stuck in the esophagus, and heartburn. Eosinophilic Esophagitis is most common in those with asthma, atopic dermatitis, and those who have food or environmental allergies. Family history of Eosinophilic Esophagitis may also be a risk factor.
A Milestone for Those With Eosinophilic Esophagitis
Dupixent is a monoclonal antibody that works to curb inflammation and was previously approved by the Federal Drug Administration for use in those with other conditions. The Allergy Group was one of the few research centers involved in studies to assist with the approval of Dupixent for Eosinophilic Esophagitis. Our office has already been using this medication in the treatment of asthma nasal polyp and atopic eczema, and we have seen how effective its use is in our patients. We are very excited that Dupixent will now be a treatment option to help those suffering from Eosinophilic Esophagitis.
Success in Clinical Trials
Results of the clinical trials indicate that overall, about 60% of all Eosinophilic Esophagitis patients who received Dupixent saw significant improvement in eosinophils or white blood cells in the esophagus. Additionally, those patients who were given Dupixent also reported that their difficulty in swallowing improved significantly.
Managing Eosinophilic Esophagitis can be challenging, but the new FDA approval of Dupixent gives patients an exciting new treatment option. At The Allergy Group, we have a long history with Dupixent and are very confident in the benefits that this drug provides to our patients. If you are suffering from Eosinophilic Esophagitis, please reach out to us to schedule a consultation and find out if Dupixent is the right option for you.