KEY POINTS
- New long-term data shows that Ebglyss (lebrikizumab) maintains skin clearance and itch relief for up to four years in patients with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis.
- The study found that 80% of patients achieved these durable results using a once-monthly maintenance injection, often without the need for supplemental topical steroids.
- Clinical outcomes remained high, with 94% of participants experiencing significant skin improvement and 78% reporting meaningful relief from persistent itching.
Eli Lilly and Company has released impressive four-year results from its ADlong Phase 3b study, reinforcing the long-term efficacy of its eczema treatment, Ebglyss. The data, presented at the American Academy of Dermatology 2026 Annual Meeting, confirms that the drug provides a durable solution for individuals struggling with the chronic inflammation and unpredictable flares associated with atopic dermatitis. By targeting the IL-13 cytokine, Ebglyss addresses the underlying drivers of the disease rather than just masking surface symptoms.
One of the most significant findings from the extended study is the convenience and consistency of the treatment. The majority of patients who responded to the initial therapy maintained their progress with a single monthly maintenance dose. Specifically, 75% of patients achieved near-complete skin clearance, and 68% maintained clear or almost-clear skin throughout the four-year period. This stability is a major breakthrough for a condition that typically requires daily topical applications or more frequent systemic dosing.
The study also highlighted a substantial improvement in the quality of life for participants. Persistent itching is often cited as the most burdensome symptom of eczema, leading to sleep loss and significant distress. According to the latest findings, 78% of patients experienced meaningful itch relief. Furthermore, 80% of those in the study achieved these clinical milestones without relying on topical corticosteroids, which can sometimes cause skin thinning or other side effects when used long-term.
Safety data from the first year of the ADlong study remained consistent with the drug’s established profile. The most common side effects reported were mild to moderate, including redness or itching of the eyes and eyelids (conjunctivitis) and reactions at the site of injection. Very few participants had to discontinue treatment due to adverse events, suggesting that the therapy is well-tolerated over extended durations. This safety record is crucial for a medication intended for long-term management of a chronic condition.
Eli Lilly’s leadership emphasized that these results represent a shift in the treatment paradigm for eczema. By providing a “high bar” of skin clearance that lasts for years, Ebglyss allows patients to move away from the frequent interruptions caused by flare-ups. The company is also exploring the drug’s potential in younger populations, recently reporting positive Phase 3 results for children as young as six months, which could soon lead to expanded regulatory approvals.
As the ADlong study continues for another year, the medical community is optimistic about the role of IL-13 inhibitors in dermatology. The ability to provide stable, long-term disease control with a monthly injection offers a promising future for millions of people living with moderate-to-severe eczema. These findings solidify Ebglyss’s position as a leading biologic option for those whose condition is not adequately managed by standard topical prescriptions.
