Information for the public
Baricitinib (Olumiant) is available on the NHS for moderate to severe atopic dermatitis (eczema) in adults. It is a possible treatment only when the dermatitis has not improved with other treatments such as ciclosporin, methotrexate, azathioprine and mycophenolate mofetil, or these cannot be taken.
Treatment with baricitinib should be assessed after 8 weeks and stopped at 16 weeks if the dermatitis does not improve enough.
When assessing the physical signs of dermatitis, healthcare professionals should take into account your skin colour because this can affect how severe the dermatitis looks.
When assessing how dermatitis affects your quality of life, healthcare professionals should take into account any disabilities or difficulties in communicating you might have.
If you are not eligible for baricitinib but are already having it, you should be able to continue until you and your doctor decide when best to stop.
Is this treatment right for me?
Your healthcare professionals should give you clear information, talk with you about your options and listen carefully to your views and concerns. Your family can be involved too, if you wish. Read more about making decisions about your care.
Questions to think about
- How well does it work compared with other treatments?
- What are the risks or side effects? How likely are they?
- How will the treatment affect my day-to-day life?
- What happens if the treatment does not work?
- What happens if I do not want to have treatment? Are there other treatments available?
Information and support
The NHS website may be a good place to find out more.
This organisation can give you advice and support: The National Eczema Society, 0800 448 0818.
You can also get support from your local Healthwatch.
NICE is not responsible for the quality or accuracy of any information or advice provided by these organisations.
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