Arthritic Lifestyles

An arthritis drug, baricitinib, is discussed as a potential treatment for autoimmune alopecia, not androgenetic alopecia. Ritlecitinib is also mentioned as a possible treatment for scarring alopecia.

A user reversed severe hair loss with dieting, lifestyle changes, and topical minoxidil, highlighting reduced inflammation and body fat. The conversation debates finasteride's effectiveness and the impact of diet and lifestyle on hair health.

Key treatments for hair preservation include minoxidil, finasteride/dutasteride, and microneedling, with additional options like specific shampoos, oils, biotin, zinc, tretinoin, clascoterone, and low-level laser therapy. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, reducing stress, and addressing nutrient deficiencies can also support hair health.

The user is experiencing diffuse hair thinning despite using finasteride and oral minoxidil, with no hairline recession or bald spots. Suggestions include checking for telogen effluvium, considering a JAK inhibitor for potential autoimmune issues, and conducting further tests to rule out other causes.

Finasteride can cause sexual side effects in less than 2% of men, but these often disappear over time, even if the treatment continues. Some users report persistent side effects, while others experience no issues or only temporary ones.

An arthritis drug, Rinvoq, restores hair in some alopecia areata patients but is not effective for androgenetic alopecia. It is used for autoimmune-related skin disorders, but its high cost and lack of insurance coverage are issues.