Summary
Health Canada authorized Nemluvio®, a first-in-class biologic for eczema and prurigo nodularis that specifically targets the biological cause of chronic itch. While national funding reviews are still underway, this approval provides a vital new option for patients who haven't found relief with standard creams.
A new era in dermatological care has arrived for Canadians suffering from chronic, debilitating itch. Health Canada authorized Nemluvio® (nemolizumab) for the treatment of moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (eczema) in patients aged 12 and older, as well as prurigo nodularis in adults.
Nemluvio® is a first-in-class biologic that specifically targets the neuro-immune pathway responsible for itch, providing a much-needed alternative for patients whose conditions are not adequately controlled by topical therapies.
Targeting the “Itch Cytokine”
Unlike traditional eczema treatments that focus primarily on skin inflammation, Nemluvio® is the first monoclonal antibody designed to block interleukin-31 (IL-31). Often referred to by scientists as the “itch cytokine,” IL-31 sends signals directly to the nervous system to trigger the urge to scratch.
By blocking this signal, Nemluvio® addresses the most burdensome symptom of these conditions: the relentless itch that leads to sleep deprivation, skin damage, and significant mental health strain.
“Nemolizumab’s ability to rapidly target itch makes it an exciting and much-needed advancement, offering patients relief where they need it most,” said Dr. Chih-ho Hong, Board-Certified Dermatologist, MD, FRCPC, Surrey, BC.
Proven Clinical Success
The Health Canada authorization was based on robust data from two major Phase III clinical programs:
- ARCADIA 1 & 2 (Atopic Dermatitis): These trials demonstrated that Nemluvio, administered every four weeks, significantly improved skin lesions and reduced itch in adults and adolescents.
- OLYMPIA 1 & 2 (Prurigo Nodularis): This program, the largest of its kind for this condition, showed that the treatment significantly improved itch and cleared skin nodules compared to a placebo.
Status in Canada: The Road to Access
While Nemluvio® is now authorized for sale in Canada, its widespread availability under public insurance is still in progress.
- Reimbursement Review: The drug is currently undergoing a cost-effectiveness review by Canada’s Drug Agency (CDA-AMC). This national review is a required step before the drug can be listed on federal, provincial, and territorial public drug plans.
- Cost & Funding: Because the review is ongoing, an official, widely available list price for patient use has not yet been finalized or publicly released. Until funding decisions are made by the provinces, Nemluvio® is not yet a regular benefit under most public insurance plans.
- Patient Support: Historically, specialty biologics are supported by manufacturer-led patient assistance programs. These programs often help patients navigate early access and insurance coverage during the reimbursement review phase.
Is It Right For You?
Nemluvio® is intended for those whose disease is not adequately controlled with topical prescription therapies. Because it is an injectable medication given once every four weeks, it offers a convenient schedule for those looking to move away from daily creams or more frequent injections.
Subscribe to The Health Insider newsletter for more evidence-based updates on Canadian medical breakthroughs.
~ Read more from The Health Insider ~
- The $37 Billion Blind Spot: Why Canada Needs to Close the Women’s Health Gap
Canadian women spend 24% more time in poor health than men. Discover why this $37B gap exists and how to advocate for the care you deserve. - Kidney Breakthrough: Health Canada Authorizes First-of-its-Kind Treatment for Lupus NephritisHealth Canada authorizes Gazyva for lupus nephritis. Discover how this twice-yearly treatment improves kidney response and prevents failure.
- Fitness In 2026 Looks VERY DifferentDitch the solo grind. In 2026, social wellness and “third space” gyms are fighting the loneliness epidemic through pickleball and city-wide run clubs.
- New Study Warns of Rapid Weight Regain When Quitting Weight Loss DrugsNew research shows stopping weight loss medication leads to rapid regain, with many returning to their original weight in less than two years.
- Gen Z Health Crisis: Mental Health and Chronic Disease Claims Soar in CanadaA new Sun Life report reveals Gen Z health claims for mental health and chronic disease are rising 3x faster than any other generation in Canada.
- Does HRT Increase Dementia Risk? New 1M Woman StudyA study of 1M women finds HRT doesn’t increase dementia risk. We dive into the findings and why women are still more likely to face Alzheimer’s.
The information provided on TheHealthInsider.ca is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. TheHealthInsider.ca advises consulting a medical professional or healthcare provider when seeking medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment. To read about our editorial review process click here.
