Treatment Satisfaction, Efficacy, and Safety of Delgocitinib Ointment Following Switch From Topical Corticosteroids for Trunk and Extremity Rash in Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by recurrent remissions and relapses. Topical anti-inflammatory steroids are commonly used for treatment, but their long-term use poses concerns because of potential side effects. Delgocitinib ointment, a Janus kinase inhibitor, has demonstrated efficacy in several clinical studies and is expected to be a viable alternative to topical corticosteroids (TCS). To evaluate the real-world safety and efficacy of delgocitinib in Japanese patients, we assessed the benefits of switching from TCS to delgocitinib ointment in AD patients with rashes on the trunk and extremities. Overall, data from 93 patients (mean age: 35 years) were analyzed. Patients switched from TCS to delgocitinib ointment and were followed for up to 12 weeks. Treatment outcomes were assessed using the treatment Satisfaction questionnaire for medication-9 (TSQM-9), Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI), modified EASI (mEASI), Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) for itching, Atopic Dermatitis Control Tool (ADCT), and Patient Preference Questionnaire (PPQ). During the observation period, TSQM-9 scores were significantly improved (effectiveness 68.3 to 72.9, p < 0.05; global satisfaction 61.7 to 67.9, p < 0.01). Additionally, mEASI (8.82 to 6.92, p < 0.05), EASI (9.60 to 7.43, p < 0.001), NRS (5.6 to 4.5, p < 0.001), and ADCT (8.8 to 5.5, p < 0.001) scores were decreased during treatment. Moreover, local side effects were improved, with a > 20% reduction in the severity of skin atrophy and telangiectasia. Approximately 72% of patients reported that "the study drug is more effective" using the PPQ. Taken together, our study demonstrates that delgocitinib ointment is an effective treatment option for AD patients with rashes of the trunk and extremities, as well as for those concerned about the potential side effects of TCS. Trial Registration: The study was registered at the Japan Registry of Clinical Trials (jRCTs031230102).