Sep

19

Do We Need More Drugs For Eczema?

Filed Under Eczema Treatment, Eczema Causes 

I read this newly published article from The Herald about eczema with much interest (and much horror). 

According to the article, which we already know, recent research has identified a defective gene in [tag-tec]eczema[/tag-tec] sufferers that cause dry skin. This gene is responsible for the production of the protein filaggrin, which helps the skin form a protective layer.  Without this protective layer, water loss from the body cannot be effectively prevented.  Also, allergens cannot be prevented from getting in. Hence, [tag-dtec]eczema[/tag-dtec] sufferers end up with dry skin and an inflammatory response by their immune system to allergens.

What followed in the article is that with the genetic discovery, it is hoped that more drugs or creams can be developed to provide an improved skin-barrier function. 

*Pause*

My immediate thoughts: do we need more drugs for eczema? Can a miracle cream help to provide the protein filaggrin? I’m assuming here that this miracle cream would be using synthetic chemicals for its production.

Drugs are not totally safe and many, such as steroids, do pose serious side effects.   If you don’t know it by now, even the new class of immunosuppresant drugs, marketed as as non-steroid based and safe for [tag-ice]eczema[/tag-ice] sufferers, is now linked to cancer. Their manufactuers have said that these drugs have passed numerous testings before being put on the market.

Also, I’m wondering why with the genetic discovery, it is not mentioned that more research would be poured into finding natural sources of nutrition to help make up for the deficiency in protein filaggrin instead.  I may be wrong but my guess is that the research study is funded by a big pharmaceutical company.

One thing is obvious to me.  I won’t be waiting 10 years (apparently needed for clinical trials and testings) for these drugs or miracle creams. I’lll be continuing my search into natural healing as I strongly believe that this is the best approach for my skin and health.

Comments

2 Responses to “Do We Need More Drugs For Eczema?”

  1. Gerald Lent on September 19th, 2007 4:53 pm

    I have a rash that now covers my body from my feet to my head and is so itchy that its driving me insane. I’ve had it now for more than two years. It started as a red spot at the top of my chest.I’ve seen a dermatologist four times and of course my family doctor many more times. I had biopsies done but no one seems to be able to tell me just what it is that I have. The rash looks very simi;ar to those that you picture of the ones that were on your legs.. Its just getting progressivly worse day by day. They have tried three or four different ointments but they don’t really seem to do any good. The last one (the one that I’m using now is “Sarna 1 %” ab\nd it makes me very cold for a while after I apply it. My skin has lost all its insulating qualities and I’m cold all the time , even in hot weather or a well heated room..I’m just not sure that this is exema..Perhaps you can enlighten me..

  2. john on September 20th, 2007 2:09 am

    agreed what you are mention.Expert said let the food be your medicine .and medicine be your food

Leave a Reply