TLDR Baricitinib might help treat hair loss in lupus patients, but more research is needed.
The study investigated the efficacy of Baricitinib, a JAK 1/2 inhibitor, in treating diffuse non-scarring alopecia in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The JAK-STAT pathway, crucial for type I interferons, is implicated in SLE-associated inflammation. Baricitinib, already approved for rheumatoid arthritis, showed promise in improving SLE symptoms like arthritis and rash, though specific effects on skin involvement, including alopecia, were not detailed. Diffuse non-scarring alopecia, a common but non-life-threatening symptom of SLE, significantly impacts patients' quality of life.
19 citations,
August 2019 in “Dermatologic therapy” Janus kinase inhibitors show promise for treating alopecia areata but need more research for confirmation.
32 citations,
December 2018 in “Cytokine” Type I interferons play a key role in the development of various skin diseases.
46 citations,
June 2018 in “American Journal of Clinical Dermatology” Hair loss is common in lupus patients and can be permanent or reversible, depending on the type, with various treatments available.
701 citations,
August 2014 in “Nature medicine” Alopecia areata can be reversed by JAK inhibitors, promoting hair regrowth.
15 citations,
December 2011 in “Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology” Hair loss in systemic lupus erythematosus patients is unique and improves with treatment.
6 citations,
April 2021 in “Frontiers in Immunology” A patient with lupus and long-term hair loss saw significant hair regrowth after using the drug tofacitinib.
January 2023 in “Skin appendage disorders” Hair loss is common in autoimmune diseases and can be an early sign of the condition, often requiring prompt treatment to prevent permanent damage.
3 citations,
March 2021 in “Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology” Early treatment of Lupus Erythematosus Alopecia can prevent permanent hair loss, and various medications are effective.
May 2023 in “Journal of Clinical Medicine” New understanding and treatments for hair loss are improving, but more research is needed.
3 citations,
May 2023 in “Clinical drug investigation” JAK inhibitors for alopecia areata are linked to minor side effects like headache and acne, but not to an increased risk of serious adverse events.
