Topical Rapamycin for Rosacea

[Guide]

"Topical application of rapamycin improved clinical symptoms in rosacea patients, suggesting mTORC1 inhibition can serve as a novel therapeutic avenue for rosacea." [1]

Rapamycin (Sirolimus) is a macrolide compound that "has immunosuppressant functions in humans and is especially useful in preventing the rejection of kidney transplants. It inhibits activation of T cells and B cells by reducing their sensitivity to interleukin-2 (IL-2) through mTOR inhibition." [2] Sensitivity to interleukin-2 (IL-2) along with other cytokines have been noted in rosacea patients. [3]

Topical Rapamycin has been used to treat facial angiofibromas in treatment of tuberous sclerosis complex. [4] It has also been used to treat aging skin [5] and in treating cutaneous microcystic lymphatic malformations. [6]

Topical rapamycin may need a compounding pharmacist. We await to hear more on this topical treatment for rosacea. 

End Notes 

[1] A positive feedback loop between mTORC1 and cathelicidin promotes skin inflammation in rosacea

[2] Sirolimus, Wikipedia

[3] Cytokines and Rosacea

[4] Efficacy and Safety of Topical Rapamycin in Patients With Facial Angiofibromas Secondary to Tuberous Sclerosis Complex

Topical Rapamycin - A Novel Approach to Facial Angiofibromas in Tuberous Sclerosis

[5] Topical rapamycin for aging skin, Radhika Baitari, Medical News Bulletin

Topical rapamycin reduces markers of senescence and aging in human skin: an exploratory, prospective, randomized trial

[6] Topical sirolimus 0.1% for treating cutaneous microcystic lymphatic malformations in children and adults (TOPICAL): protocol for a multicenter phase 2, within-person, randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled clinical trial