Other Options for Atopic Dermatitis

Oral Medications as an Atopic Dermatitis Treatment

Medications taken by mouth for atopic dermatitis treatment can include:

 

 

Steroids are usually only given as a pill (or injected) when other atopic dermatitis treatment methods have not worked. While corticosteroid pills can be effective, they can cause several side effects, which include:

 

• Weakening of the skin and bones
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Diabetes
• Infections.

 

Atopic Dermatitis Treatment Using Ultraviolet Light Therapy

Phototherapy, also known as light therapy, can be used as in atopic dermatitis treatment as well. Phototherapy uses ultraviolet A or B light waves, alone or combined. It can be used for adults and children over the age of 12. Possible long-term side effects of phototherapy include premature skin aging and skin cancer.

 

Atopic Dermatitis Treatment: A Summary

It is important for patients to follow their atopic dermatitis treatment plan and to keep track of treatments that are helpful and treatments that are not helpful. Symptoms of atopic dermatitis usually improve with the right skin care and lifestyle changes. Researchers have found that treatment is most effective when the patient, family members, and doctor work together.