The Efficacy of Tapering Treatment with 0.1% Tacrolimus Ointment in Adult Patients with Atopic Dermatitis in Korea

Kye, Heesang; Seo, Soo Hong; Ahn, Hyo Hyun; Kye, Young Chul

Abstract

BACKGROUND
Tacrolimus ointment is a topical immunomodulator. Preliminary studies suggest that 0.1% tacrolimus is effective and has a proactive effect on atopic dermatitis with fewer complications than topical corticosteroids.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of tapering treatment with 0.1% tacrolimus ointment and its impact on quality of life in adult patients with atopic dermatitis in Korea. Korean adults with atopic dermatitis.
METHODS
A total of 53 patients aged 15 to 54 years with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis applied 0.1% tacrolimus ointment for 12 weeks. The 0.1% tacrolimus ointment was applied along with a topical corticosteroid once daily during the 2-week induction phase and twice daily during the 2-week transitional phase. During the 8-week maintenance phase, the corticosteroid was discontinued and the 0.1% tacrolimus ointment alone was applied twice daily for 2 weeks and twice weekly for 6 weeks. Efficacy and quality of life were evaluated by the SCORAD and the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), respectively.
RESULTS
SCORAD and DLQI values were significantly improved after 12 weeks of treatment. Symptoms were markedly improved after 2 weeks of applying the 0.1% tacrolimus ointment and the improvements were well maintained after tapering. Continuous improvement was observed throughout the study. Transient skin burning and itching occurred in about 43% of the patients, but gradually decreased in about 30% after continuous application.
CONCLUSION
Tapering treatment with 0.1% tacrolimus ointment is safe and effective, and may replace the long-term use of topical corticosteroids, avoiding corticosteroid-associated adverse effects while maintaining clinical control and improving the quality of life of adult atopic dermatitis patients.