JAK Inhibitors for the Treatment of Alopecia Areata

JAK inhibitors, such as ruxolitinib, baricitinib, and tofacitinib, were found to promote hair regrowth in patients with alopecia areata and in animal models. These inhibitors block T-cell-mediated inflammation and have shown benefits in other inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis. Despite their popularity for treating moderate-to-severe alopecia areata, concerns about adverse events, particularly infections, and the long-term durability of these treatments remained. Ongoing clinical trials aimed to better understand the safety and efficacy of both topical and systemic JAK inhibitors, with the potential for these treatments to become the first FDA-approved options for alopecia areata if proven effective and safe. Prof. Ramot disclosed receiving lecture fees from Novartis and Lilly.