Clinical Trials for Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis -- often called eczema -- is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes itching, redness, cracked skin, and sleep disruption. For moderate to severe cases, topical treatments are often not enough, and specialty biologics or oral JAK inhibitors may be what your dermatologist recommends. These medications are effective, but insurance prior authorization and denials are a major barrier for many people.

Clinical trials are actively developing new treatments for atopic dermatitis, including medications that work through different pathways than what is currently approved, which may help people who have not responded to existing therapies.

The American Academy of Dermatology notes that atopic dermatitis affects up to 25% of children and about 2-3% of adults in the United States.

What Types of Trials Are Available?

IL-4/IL-13 inhibitor trials build on the mechanism behind dupilumab (Dupixent), studying next-generation antibodies in the same pathway with potentially improved profiles. IL-31 inhibitor trials target a cytokine specifically linked to itch -- one of the most distressing symptoms of atopic dermatitis. Nemolizumab is the most advanced agent in this class. JAK inhibitor trials study topical and oral JAK inhibitors for people with moderate to severe disease. Abrocitinib and upadacitinib are approved; trials are studying newer agents and optimal treatment approaches. Combination and maintenance trials are studying whether combining biologics with topical therapies, or extending treatment intervals, can maintain control with less medication over time.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for currently recruiting trials.

Am I Eligible?

Common eligibility factors for atopic dermatitis trials include:

- Confirmed moderate to severe atopic dermatitis (typically measured by EASI, IGA, or SCORAD scores)

- Inadequate response to topical corticosteroids or other topical therapies

- Prior biologic or JAK inhibitor history (some trials enroll biologic-naive participants; others specifically seek people who have tried and not responded to Dupixent)

- No active skin infections at enrollment

- Not currently pregnant or planning to become pregnant (for some trial medications)

Your dermatologist can review your current disease severity and treatment history to help you assess eligibility. Talk to your doctor before making any decisions about your treatment.

What If My Insurance Denied My Medication?

Dupixent (dupilumab) is the most commonly prescribed biologic for moderate to severe atopic dermatitis, and it is also one of the most frequently denied -- often because insurers require documentation of failed topical therapies first. If your dermatologist has prescribed Dupixent and your insurance said no, you have the right to appeal.

A well-supported appeal, with your doctor's documentation of your treatment history and disease burden, can succeed. At the same time, clinical trials studying Dupixent-alternative or post-Dupixent therapies may offer access to effective treatment while your appeal is in progress.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are clinical trials for atopic dermatitis free?

In most cases, yes. Trial sponsors (pharmaceutical companies, universities, or the NIH) cover the cost of the experimental treatment. You may still have costs for routine care — like doctor visits or standard tests — depending on your insurance. Always ask the trial coordinator what costs you might be responsible for before enrolling.

How do I find atopic dermatitis trials near me?

The best place to start is ClinicalTrials.gov, the official registry of all trials in the US. Search by condition name and filter by your location. Your specialist can also help identify trials at academic medical centers in your region.

Can I join a trial after being denied Dupixent?

Yes, and in many cases a denial can actually make you a stronger candidate — trials often enroll patients who have not responded to or cannot access standard treatments. Talk to your doctor about whether your denial history makes you eligible for open trials studying Dupixent or similar medications.