Analysis of Reddit Reveals Dupilumab Questions Among Atopic Dermatitis Patients

Background: Atopic dermatitis patients are turning to social media to seek guidance and source medical information. Reddit, the seventh most visited website in the US, contains the popular “eczeMABs” subreddit, a forum dedicated to discussing monoclonal antibody therapy for atopic dermatitis. Objective: To uncover atopic dermatitis patients’ dupilumab-related information needs. Methods: The authors analyzed all questions posted on the “eczeMABs” subreddit. Each question was then separated into categories and subcategories for analysis. Results: 262 questions from 189 posts were analyzed. The greatest proportion of questions was related to side effects (36.3%), with patients most frequently inquiring about flares (25/95), ocular effects (17/95), and dry skin (10/95). Usage instructions (13.4%) and general experience (8.0%) were common question categories as well. Limitations: The questions of the “eczeMABs” subreddit subscribers may not reflect the questions of all atopic dermatitis patients. Conclusion: Reddit provides valuable insight into atopic dermatitis patient gaps in knowledge regarding dupilumab therapy. Physicians can use this knowledge to better address the information needs of patients, potentially leading to better outcomes and more informed, empowered patients.