Janus Kinase Inhibitors for the Treatment of Alopecia Areata

Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune disease causing non-scarring hair loss, potentially progressing to more severe forms. This review analyzed randomized clinical trials from 2016 to 2025 on the efficacy and safety of topical or systemic Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors for AA treatment, involving 5,116 patients. Significant hair coverage improvement was noted, particularly with ritlecitinibe and baricitinibe, even in extensive cases. Adverse effects were mostly mild to moderate, such as headache, acne, and respiratory infections. Treatment discontinuation often led to loss of results, suggesting the need for prolonged maintenance. JAK inhibitors are effective for severe AA with an acceptable safety profile, though long-term studies are needed for definitive therapeutic guidelines.