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Interferon gamma for adult atopic dermatitis

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By Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS

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Interferon gamma is a medication that reduces the body's immune reaction. When injected under the skin surface (subcutaneously), interferon gamma significantly improves atopic dermatitis symptoms for 4 out of 5 people.1 A common side effect is flulike illness during the early days of treatment.

Although interferon gamma injections are considered safe and effective for many people who have severe atopic dermatitis, they aren't widely used because of their inconvenience and expense.1 However, if you have severe symptoms that have not responded to other treatments, injections are worth considering.

References

Citations

  1. Sidbury R, Hanifin J (2000). Systemic therapy of atopic dermatitis. Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 25(7): 559–566.

Credits

Author Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
Last Updated May 5, 2008
Last Updated: 05/05/2008