Intractable cases of atopic dermatitis often exhibit recurrent exacerbations, with the primary treatment being topical steroids. However, prolonged use of steroids can lead to steroid addiction or iatrogenic disease. Withdrawal from steroids once the condition becomes uncontrollable is known to be challenging. Herein, we explore the strategies for overcoming steroid addiction and mitigating its adverse effects. One approach involves combining the anti-allergic drug tranilast, which inhibits mast cell degranulation, with the unique macrolide antibiotic roxithromycin, known for its T helper type 2 (Th2) suppressive effect. Moreover, we examine the methods for managing steroid-dependent atopic dermatitis, a condition that poses significant challenges in terms of withdrawal.
Yasuhiro Horiuchi (Thu,) studied this question.