1% colloidal oatmeal OTC cream relieves symptoms of atopic dermatitis in children

The use of colloidal oatmeal (Avena sativa) 1% over-the-counter (OTC) cream is a novel, quick-relief, and cost-effective symptomatic therapy for mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis (AD) in Black/African American children, the findings of a post-hoc analysis published in the “Journal of Dermatological Treatment” reported. Toni Anne Lisante et al. assessed the efficacy of previously described prescription barrier cream based on ceramides in comparison with colloidal oatmeal 1% OTC cream in pediatric AD patients.

A total of 49 Black/African American children in the age group 2 to 15 years with mild-to-moderate AD were considered. The participants were assigned randomly to apply 1% oatmeal cream (n=25) or prescription barrier cream (n=24) two times per day or on an 'as required' basis over three weeks. The AD assessment scores and related symptoms of eczema were assessed. The mean (standard deviation [SD]) changes in AD assessment scores at week 3 from baseline have been described in Table 1 below:

The subjective ratings of signs/symptoms of eczema improved and both interventions were well-tolerated. Hence, OTC 1% oatmeal cream (when used at least twice daily) is as efficient and safe as prescription barrier cream for tackling mild-to-moderate AD in Black/African American children, offering a novel, fast-acting, and cost-effective option.