Life-changing biologic treatment, dupilumab, is now available to people with moderate to severe eczema in Ireland.
The HSE has advised that effective from 1st April 2021, reimbursement of dupilumab will be available under High Tech Arrangements for the treatment of moderate-to-severe refractory atopic dermatitis (AD) in adults and adolescents 12 years and older for whom immunosuppressant treatment has failed, or is not tolerated or is contraindicated.
ISF Chairperson, Dr Marina O’Kane said, “The ISF welcomes the decision to reimburse dupilumab, a drug which signifies the first major therapeutic breakthrough for atopic eczema in decades. Living with severe eczema can have a significant impact on an individual’s mental health, overall wellbeing and quality of life and we hope that this is the first in a long line of advancements that will mean a future for people with eczema where they do not have to live with the huge burden of this chronic condition.”
CEO of the ISF, David McMahon, expressed thanks to all of many people affected by eczema and supporters who contacted TDs and Ministers to request that access to dupilumab be raised with the Minister for Health, Department of Health and the HSE.
To find out more about ISF advocacy click here. If you have questions about dupilumab or this campaign please e-mail us at info@irishskin.ie
