A breakthrough new treatment for debilitating hand eczema has been officially approved for use on the NHS, offering fresh hope to tens of thousands of sufferers across England.
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has given the green light to the drug delgocitinib, marketed as Anzupgo and produced by Leo Pharma. This decision paves the way for the cream to be made available to adults struggling with moderate to severe chronic hand eczema, a condition that can make simple daily tasks agonisingly difficult.
A Life-Changing Treatment for Thousands
This approval is set to be life-changing for an estimated 62,000 people in England. The condition, which causes the skin on the hands to become dry, sore, cracked, and intensely itchy, is particularly challenging for those in certain professions.
Speaking on BBC Morning Live, health expert Dr Oscar Duke highlighted the significant impact this will have. He explained that individuals who wash their hands frequently, such as healthcare workers, or those who work outdoors are especially vulnerable. These activities strip the skin of its natural moisture and break down the protective skin barrier, leading to severe irritation.
The new cream, which is applied twice daily to the hands and wrists, can be used conveniently at home, offering a new level of independence from clinical visits for many patients.
Filling a Gap in Current Care
Dr Duke outlined the limitations of existing treatments during his segment. While medical-grade moisturisers (emollients) are available over the counter, and doctors often prescribe steroid creams, these options frequently fall short.
"For many people they still don't work," Dr Duke stated, particularly when the skin on the palms becomes very thickened. For patients who do not respond to steroids or for whom they are unsuitable, treatment options have been limited and often burdensome.
These have included ultraviolet light therapy, which requires regular trips to the hospital, and retinoid medication, which can cause a host of unpleasant side effects like dizziness, dry eyes, dry mouth, alopecia, anaemia, and conjunctivitis.
Financial and Personal Benefits
The introduction of delgocitinib represents more than just a clinical advance. NICE has recommended it specifically for patients who have limited options after other treatments have failed.
This targeted approach is not only more effective for patients but is also expected to be financially beneficial for the health service. The approval of this new drug could potentially save the NHS millions of pounds by providing a more effective, first-line treatment for severe cases, potentially reducing the need for more expensive and complex care pathways.
According to the official guidance, delgocitinib will be available on the NHS within 90 days of the NICE approval, meaning eligible patients could start receiving the treatment in early 2025.
