JAK Inhibition in the Treatment of Alopecia Areata: A Promising New Dawn?

The document reviewed the potential of JAK inhibitors in treating alopecia areata (AA), a T-cell-mediated disease causing hair loss and nail dystrophy. It highlighted six JAK inhibitors— tofacitinib, ruxolitinib, baricitinib, CTP-543, PF-06651600, and PF-06700841— which showed promise in regrowing hair and reversing nail dystrophy in patients with refractory AA. Early clinical trials yielded positive results, leading to phase 3 trials and optimism among patients. However, the review noted the need for further research to determine optimal dosing, treatment duration, and the necessity of maintenance therapy. Common adverse effects included increased infection risk and laboratory abnormalities.