Plant-based hydrogel has shown impressive results in the treatment of eczema

Plant-based hydrogel has shown impressive results in the treatment of eczema.

Western dermatologists highlight Zabalafin hydrogel as a promising option for multi-target therapy of eczema, which simultaneously affects all stages of the pathological process: inflammation, itching, and bacterial complications, including infection with pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus (SA) and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).

Atopic dermatitis (atopic eczema) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by dryness, itching, and rash. It is associated with impaired skin barrier function and immune system hyperreactivity. It most often manifests in early childhood and can persist into adulthood. It can be the beginning of the “atopic march” (the sequential development of allergic diseases, starting with skin changes and subsequently involving the respiratory system).

A document recently published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology offers a practical algorithm for the treatment of atopic dermatitis at all stages. The algorithm is divided into two sections: treatment of active exacerbations of atopic dermatitis (eczema) without infection and treatment of secondarily infected exacerbations. To assess the severity of atopic dermatitis, it is recommended to use tools such as the Investigator Global Assessment (IGA), the Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI), and the Scoring Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD) scale, which take into account factors such as xerosis, erythema, exudation, and lichenification.

As for Zabalafin hydrogel, in a phase 2a clinical trial, the use of this topical agent resulted in significant improvement in itching, reduction in inflammation, and improvement in patients’ quality of life. In addition, the drug was effective against complications of atopic dermatitis associated with Staphylococcus aureus.

Zabalafin hydrogel, developed by Alphyn Biologics using its patented Multi-Target Therapeutics platform, is considered the first in its class of herbal medicines containing several natural bioactive compounds with anti-inflammatory, anti-itch, and antibacterial properties.

The herbal medicine is currently being evaluated in a Phase 2b trial, with final results expected in the first half of 2026.

Alfin Biologics CEO Neil Koller noted that combating the bacterial component of eczema is just as important as combating the immune-inflammatory component, so Zabalafin hydrogel