Eczema is a condition that affects millions.
And if you know someone who’s battled this itchy, uncomfortable disorder, you’ve probably seen how relentless it can be. For those with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis, daily life can feel like a never-ending cycle of scratching, sleepless nights, and social embarrassment.
Big Pharma’s answer? Yet another drug—this time, it’s EBGLYSS from Eli Lilly, a newly FDA-approved treatment that targets the cytokines believed to drive eczema.
But before rushing to your dermatologist, it’s important to remember that not all drugs are created equal—and they don’t come without risks.
Atopic dermatitis is certainly frustrating, but instead of automatically turning to drugs with questionable safety profiles, we should be asking: Is there a better, safer way to manage eczema naturally?
What is EBGLYSS and How Does It Work?
EBGLYSS, chemically known as lebrikizumab, is designed to target specific cytokines—small proteins that cause inflammation and trigger eczema’s classic symptoms of itching, redness, and swelling.
In theory, inhibiting the IL-13 cytokine, which plays a key role in eczema, should calm down the immune response and reduce flare-ups.
Eli Lilly conducted several clinical trials on EBGLYSS, and the FDA approved it for use in adults and children 12 years or older with moderate-to-severe eczema.
According to the trials, after just 16 weeks of treatment, about 38 percent of participants achieved clear or nearly clear skin. Some even saw improvements in as little as four weeks.
And while this all sounds promising, let’s not get too carried away…
The Side Effects You Shouldn’t Ignore
Here’s where the skepticism sets in. Like many drugs that target the immune system, EBGLYSS doesn’t come without its share of side effects.
Among the common side effect complaints were eye and eyelid inflammation (including redness, swelling, and itching). Some have also experienced injection site reactions and shingles (herpes zoster).
For a drug that’s supposed to ease inflammation, causing additional irritation—especially around the eyes—seems like a red flag. And shingles? That’s a serious condition that can cause painful, long-lasting nerve damage.
While some patients might tolerate EBGLYSS just fine, it’s essential to ask: Are the risks really worth it?
Why I Prefer Natural Alternatives
As someone who values natural health solutions, I’m always cautious when it comes to new drugs like EBGLYSS. Targeting inflammation is important, but you don’t need an expensive, side effect-ridden drug to do it.
In fact, there are several natural approaches to managing eczema that can be just as effective without the scary side effects. Here are a few to consider:
- Fish Oil Supplements (Omega-3 Fatty Acids) Omega-3s are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce skin inflammation associated with eczema. Studies have shown that fish oil can help alleviate eczema symptoms by improving skin hydration and barrier function.
- Probiotics Eczema is closely linked to gut health, and probiotics can help rebalance your microbiome, leading to fewer flare-ups. By promoting a healthy immune response, probiotics may be a natural way to calm eczema’s inflammatory processes from the inside out.
- Moisturize with Natural Oils Coconut oil, for example, contains lauric acid, which can reduce inflammation and help protect the skin barrier. Applying coconut oil after a bath can lock in moisture and provide relief for dry, cracked skin.
- Avoid Triggers One of the simplest and most effective natural remedies is to identify and avoid the triggers that cause eczema flare-ups in the first place. For many, this includes certain detergents, synthetic fabrics, and even certain foods.
A Balanced Approach to Managing Eczema
At the end of the day, managing eczema isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach.
While EBGLYSS may offer relief for some, it’s crucial to weigh the benefits against the risks, especially when natural alternatives might offer a safer, healthier way to achieve the same results.
So before you reach for that prescription, take a step back and consider your options. Reducing inflammation doesn’t have to mean putting your health at risk.
P.S. Click here and learn why you should think twice before taking ibuprofen…
Source:
Berman, R. (2024, September 23). EBGLYSS for eczema: What to know about the newly FDA-approved drug from Eli Lilly. Medicalnewstoday.com; Medical News Today. www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/ebglyss-for-eczema-what-to-know-about-the-newly-fda-approved-drug#How-does-EBGLYSS-change-the-treatment-landscape-for-eczema
