The field of dermatology has witnessed the emergence of several systemic therapies in recent years. However, few of the drugs are used off-label, which may impede reimbursement among others. A recent article described currently approved systemic therapies in dermatology and further alternatives like Compassionate Use and Early Access Programs.

Drugs approved in Germany were scrutinized online in the database for drugs of the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices and compared with the information provided from the Rote Liste.

The search identified 50 dermatologically relevant diseases with their approved systemic therapies.

Despite the availability of limited clinical studies, the massive developments in recent years and the recurrent good evidence indicate very promising systemic treatment concepts, in the field of dermatology. However, off-label use of drugs may possess hardships in everyday clinical practice, thus the attending physician should assess its use, inform the patient and previously must also consider approved alternatives.

Source: Kleinhans M, Funke-Lorenz C, Dissemond J. Zugelassene Systemtherapien in der Dermatologie [Approved systemic therapies in dermatology]. Hautarzt. 2021;72(9):785-96.