A Phase 2a Study Investigating the Effects of Ritlecitinib on Brainstem Auditory Evoked Potentials and Intraepidermal Nerve Fiber Histology in Adults with Alopecia Areata

This phase 2a study evaluated the effects of ritlecitinib on brainstem auditory evoked potentials (BAEP) and intraepidermal nerve fiber (IENF) histology in 71 adults with alopecia areata, with 36 receiving ritlecitinib and 35 receiving a placebo. Conducted across multiple countries, the study found no significant differences in BAEP or IENF parameters between the groups, indicating no neurological or audiological safety concerns. Ritlecitinib was generally well-tolerated, with most adverse events being mild or moderate. Efficacy assessments showed a greater reduction in Severity of Alopecia Tool (SALT) scores and higher Patient Global Impression of Change (PGI-C) response rates in the ritlecitinib group compared to placebo, supporting its safety and potential efficacy for treating alopecia areata.