Last reviewed 2026-04-23 · How we verify

Crisaborole ointment 2% BID

Crisaborole is a phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitor that reduces inflammatory cytokine production in the skin.

Crisaborole is a phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitor that reduces inflammatory cytokine production in the skin. Used for Atopic dermatitis.

At a glance

Mechanism of action

By inhibiting PDE4, crisaborole increases intracellular cAMP levels in immune and inflammatory cells, leading to suppression of pro-inflammatory mediators such as TNF-α and IL-2. This mechanism reduces the inflammatory cascade characteristic of atopic dermatitis, providing topical anti-inflammatory effects without systemic corticosteroid exposure.

Approved indications

• Atopic dermatitis

Common side effects

• Application site burning
• Application site irritation
• Pruritus

Key clinical trials

• Comparative Study of Crisaborole vs. Tacrolimus in Atopic Dermatitis (PHASE4)
• Crisaborole 2% Versus Tacrolimus 0.1% in Children With Mild to Moderate Atopic Dermatitis (PHASE3)
• Skin bioMARkers for Atopic Eczema Therapy Evaluation (PHASE2)
• Improvement In Scratch Behavior And Sleep In Patients With Atopic Dermatitis (PHASE4)
• Study of Efficacy, Safety and Tolerability of Crisaborole and PF-07038124 With and Without NBUVB in Vitiligo (PHASE2)
• A Study to Evaluate Long-Term Maintenance Treatment With Once Daily Crisaborole Ointment 2% in Pediatric and Adult Participants With Mild-to-Moderate Atopic Dermatitis (PHASE3)
• Response of Children With Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema) to Eucrisa (PHASE4)
• Crisaborole for Chinese and Japanese Subjects (≥2 Years of Age) With Mild to Moderate Atopic Dermatitis (PHASE3)

Primary sources

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