Topical E6005/RVT-501, a novel phosphodiesterase 4 inhibitor, for the treatment of atopic dermatitis

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Local adverse effects of steroid use and the burning sensation of calcineurin inhibitors impair patients’ adherence to treatment and decrease the treatment response in atopic dermatitis (AD). Steroid phobia appears to be a psychological problem in patients with AD. Topical non-steroidal remedies are in demand.

Areas covered: This manuscript reviews the current literature on preclinical and clinical studies regarding topical E6005/RVT-501, a novel phosphodiesterase 4 inhibitor. We also discuss the mechanistic background of E6005/RVT-501 in the treatment of AD.

Expert opinion: Topical E6005/RVT-501 improves skin eruption and pruritus of pediatric and adult AD patients without any serious side effects. It is useful for mild to moderate lesions of AD in pediatric and adult patients. Topical E6005/RVT-501 is non-steroidal agent but its potency is equal to that of mild rank topical steroid, therefore, it may fit the demand of patients with steroid phobia. Its steroid-sparing effects may also be investigated in future clinical trials and may minimize the dose and frequency of topical steroids.

KEYWORDS:

• Atopic dermatitis
• E6005/RVT-501
• clinical trial
• pathomechanism
• steroid phobia

Article highlights

• E6005/RVT-501 is a novel phosphodiesterase 4 inhibitor.

• Topical E6005/RVT-501 exhibits anti-inflammatory and anti-pruritic function.

• Topical E6005/RVT-501 is effective for the treatment of infantile and adult atopic dermatitis without any serious adverse events.

• Topical E6005/RVT-501 may satisfy the demand for an effective, non-steroidal topical drug for AD patients and their caregivers.

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Declaration of interest

Masutaka Furue served as a consultant to Eisai Co., Ltd. The authors have no other relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript apart from those disclosed.

A reviewer on this manuscript has disclosed support from pharmaceutical companies including Pfizer (Eucrisa) and Sanofi/Regeneron (dupixent). A reviewer on this manuscript has also disclosed that they are a consultant for Otsuka Pharmaceutical Development (OPA-15,406).

Additional information

Funding

This paper was not funded.