Baricitinib: From Rheumatoid Arthritis to COVID-19

Baricitinib, a JAK1/2 inhibitor initially approved for rheumatoid arthritis, has shown efficacy in treating various inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, including COVID-19, systemic lupus erythematosus, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and alopecia areata. Clinical trials have demonstrated significant improvements in disease activity and symptoms across these conditions, with notable hair regrowth in alopecia areata patients. However, its use is associated with adverse effects such as infections, liver enzyme dysregulation, and potential malignancies, necessitating careful monitoring and further research to fully understand its safety profile and optimize treatment regimens.