Crisaborole is a non-steroidal, topical anti-inflammatory drug that functions by inhibiting the enzyme phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4). Its mechanism of action primarily involves:
Inhibition of PDE4: By inhibiting this enzyme, crisaborole prevents the breakdown of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). Elevated levels of cAMP modulate the inflammatory response, leading to reduced production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
Reduction of Inflammation: Crisaborole is particularly effective in treating inflammatory skin conditions, such as atopic dermatitis (eczema), by decreasing the levels of cytokines like TNF-alpha, IL-2, and IL-23, thereby reducing skin inflammation and associated symptoms like itching and redness.
