How do oral or injectable systemic immunosuppressants help eczema?
Azathioprine, cyclosporine, methotrexate, and mycophenolate mofetil are systemic immunosuppressants that:
- Suppress the immune system
- Reduce the inflammation
Important: If your doctor prescribed a topical medication to treat your eczema, make sure to use it as directed before you put on a moisturizer.
What do I need to know about immunosuppressants used to treat eczema?
- Not specifically approved to treat eczema; sometimes used off-label for moderate-to-severe eczema.
- Sometimes used as an alternative to phototherapy.
- Very strong medications, developed for chemotherapy and to prevent organ rejection after transplants.
- Require short-term use and regular blood test monitoring by a doctor.
Side effects may include blood pressure and kidney or liver problems.
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Last updated : 2/6/2023