New Eczema Treatments Offer Hope But Remain Out of Reach for Many

Newer targeted therapies like JAK inhibitors and biologics are revolutionizing treatment for moderate to severe atopic dermatitis, offering faster relief with fewer side effects than traditional oral immunosuppressants. But for many patients, these breakthroughs remain out of reach due to high costs.

Atopic dermatitis, the most common form of eczema, affects about one in 10 adults and one in five schoolchildren. Traditional treatments, including steroids and immunosuppressants, often come with significant side effects.

In Singapore, JAK inhibitors range from $500 to about $2,000 a month, and a single injection of the biologic Dupixent costs over $900. Only one targeted therapy, the JAK inhibitor Cibinqo, is currently subsidized by the government. Dupixent is not subsidized, despite being available with subsidies in parts of Europe, Canada, and Australia.

Patients like 43-year-old Chloe Ng, a talent manager, say the cost is prohibitive. She called eczema a “rich people’s sickness.” After a JAK inhibitor cleared 95% of her eczema, she had to switch to a cheaper medication.

Doctors say these drugs are not a cure but offer a critical window for the skin to heal. Still, the financial barrier means many patients continue to suffer in silence.