Ruthann Newton Testimony at FDA Hearing

I'm Ruthann Newton, assistant director and support group coordinator of the Inflammatory Skin Disease Institute. ISDI is dedicated to improving the lives of people with skin disorders. We are a not-for-profit organization and we are supported by private and corporate grants including Novartis and Fujisawa.

Inflammatory skin diseases affect men, women and children of all ages and races. As you know, one of these inflammatory skin diseases is atopic dermatitis and that is why I am here today.

Most people may think of atopic dermatitis as a little rash behind knee or on the elbow. When in fact it can be a devastating serious medical health complication for some. These are the people I work with at ISDI, providing education, awareness and patient advocacy. Our support groups offer an opportunity to communicate with others. It is through the support groups that I am familiar with Elidel and Protopic topical immunomodulators, the two newest non steroidal treatments for patients who suffer with atopic dermatitis. Not only have I heard about the improvement in their atopic dermatitis - I have seen it.

Elidel and Protopic have not only provided relief and a better quality of life for the patients; it has provided relief to the whole family. There is no cure for atopic dermatitis. At this point the topical immunomodulators Elidel and Protopic are the best treatment alternatives to the oral and topical steroids.

Please consider the value of these new treatments. Consider the potential impact of a "black box" warning. It is my fear that this could set treatment back decades. A "black box" warning could take something away from patients that has given them success in the treatment and control of their Atopic dermatitis. Elidel and Protopic are improving the lives of people with skin disease.