The FDA has approved a new topical medication, difamilast (Adquey), for the treatment of mild to moderate atopic dermatitis (AD) in adults and children 2 years of age and older[1]. Difamilast is an inhibitor of phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4), an enzyme involved in inflammatory processes[3]. The drug acts by suppressing the formation of inflammatory mediators and has antipruritic (against itching) and anti-inflammatory properties with a rapid onset of action[5]. In phase 3 clinical trials, difamilast was shown to be effective and well tolerated in AD patients, with statistically significant differences compared to placebo[3]. The safety profile was favorable with a low incidence of adverse effects, with only 16 patients experiencing mild side effects such as transient burning and stinging[6]. Difamilast represents a new alternative to standard treatments, which often contain corticosteroids and calcineurin inhibitors[6]. In Japan, difamilast was already approved in 2021 as the first PDE4 inhibitor for the treatment of AD[5].