VTAMA (tapinarof) cream 1% is an aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) agonist indicated for the topical treatment of plaque psoriasis in adults and atopic dermatitis in adults and pediatric patients 2 years and older. VTAMA cream is applied as a thin layer to affected areas once daily.
The active ingredient, tapinarof, works by supporting natural pathways regulated by AhR receptors. This includes suppressing Th17 cell differentiation and production of key cytokines, such as IL-17 and IL-22, which play a central role in the inflammatory process of psoriasis; upregulating skin barrier proteins to help restore skin barrier function; and inducing the Nrf2 transcription factor pathway to increase antioxidant activity.
VTAMA does not have any contraindications. For plaque psoriasis, the package insert specifically mentions the following adverse reactions (incidence ≥ 1%) in patients treated with VTAMA cream: folliculitis, nasopharyngitis, contact dermatitis, headache, pruritus, and influenza. For atopic dermatitis, it mentions upper respiratory tract infection, folliculitis, lower respiratory tract infection, headache, asthma, vomiting, ear infection, pain in extremities, and abdominal pain.
As a nonsteroidal topical treatment, VTAMA offers an alternative to traditional corticosteroids for the management of plaque psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. Its unique mechanism of action and absence of contraindications make it a potential option for long-term use. VTAMA may be used as monotherapy or in combination with systemic therapies, offering clinicians an additional choice for addressing the chronic and inflammatory nature of plaque psoriasis and atopic dermatitis.