Tofacitinib in Alopecia Areata and HIV: A Curious Intersection of Immunomodulation, Hair Regrowth, and Hypertrichosis

February 2025 in “ International Journal of STD & AIDS ”

Tanvi Vaidya, Monisha Madhumita

tofacitinib alopecia areata JAK3 inhibitor hair regrowth VEGF hirsutism immune dysregulation laser hair removal Xeljanz

TLDR Tofacitinib can cause unusual hair growth, requiring careful monitoring and possible laser hair removal.

Tofacitinib, a JAK3 inhibitor, is effective in treating alopecia areata by promoting hair regrowth, potentially through VEGF upregulation and inflammation reduction. A case study of a patient with HIV on antiretroviral therapy revealed unexpected hirsutism after starting tofacitinib, which resolved after discontinuing the drug and a single laser hair removal session. This highlights the potential for unusual hair growth patterns in patients with immune dysregulation on tofacitinib, emphasizing the need for careful monitoring and management of side effects. Laser hair removal may be an effective treatment for medication-induced hirsutism.

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Research cited in this study

2 / 2 results

research Oral Tofacitinib: A Promising Treatment in Atopic Dermatitis, Alopecia Areata, and Vitiligo

37 citations , October 2017 in “Clinical and Experimental Dermatology”

Oral tofacitinib shows promise in treating atopic dermatitis and alopecia areata, but only slight improvement in vitiligo.

research Efficacy of Topical Tofacitinib in Promoting Hair Growth in Non-Scarring Alopecia: Possible Mechanism via VEGF Induction

27 citations , September 2017 in “Archives of Dermatological Research”

Topical tofacitinib may grow hair better than minoxidil by increasing VEGF and reducing inflammation.

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6 / 11 results

community 22F. Should I even bother getting a biopsy? Is there any point?

6 upvotes 9 years ago

A woman who has been experiencing hair loss for several years, and her question of whether there is any benefit to getting a biopsy to check if it's AGA or diffuse alopecia areata when no cure or very effective treatment exists. Treatments such as spironolactone and Minoxidil/finasteride/RU58841 have previously been discussed.

community IGE Hair Loss and Miniaturization

in Chat 3 upvotes 7 months ago

A 23-year-old male is experiencing diffuse hair loss and miniaturization, possibly due to high IGE levels after using tofacitinib. He seeks advice and has not yet consulted a dermatologist.

Compressed part of research of theory of androgenic/anabolitic balance. AGA h-responders analytic. Theory of physio-metabolitic method of anti AGA treatment

community Compressed part of research of theory of androgenic/anabolitic balance. AGA h-responders analytic. Theory of physio-metabolitic method of anti AGA treatment

in Research 865 upvotes 1 year ago

The treatment for androgenetic alopecia involves using finasteride and minoxidil with intense exercise and cold exposure to boost metabolism and reduce androgenic effects, potentially leading to hair regrowth. This approach may activate biological pathways for improved hair and overall health.

community Female, 27 years old, shedding/ balding despite being on what is considered to be a effective treatment plan for AGA. Considering Dut (oral) . Please help.

in Finasteride/Dutasteride 27 upvotes 1 year ago

A 27-year-old woman with androgenic alopecia is losing hair despite using oral minoxidil and spironolactone, and is considering dutasteride. She is exploring causes like stress and medication side effects, planning tests, and considering treatment changes.

community What else is good. Besides the big 3.

in Chat 35 upvotes 1 year ago

Key treatments for hair preservation include minoxidil, finasteride/dutasteride, and microneedling, with additional options like specific shampoos, oils, biotin, zinc, tretinoin, clascoterone, and low-level laser therapy. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, reducing stress, and addressing nutrient deficiencies can also support hair health.

community The shedding caused by Minoxidil is one of the worst things. 2 months apart each picture

in Progress Pictures 290 upvotes 1 year ago

The conversation discusses the severe shedding caused by Minoxidil, with users sharing their experiences and outcomes. Some report eventual regrowth, while others see no improvement or worsening hair loss.

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Minoxidil-Induced Hypertrichosis in a Child with Alopecia Areata

research Hypertrichosis Due to Minoxidil

45 citations , November 1979 in “British Journal of Dermatology”

Minoxidil causes excessive hair growth in almost all patients.

research Minoxidil-Induced Hypertrichosis: Treatment with Calcium Thioglycolate Depilatory

26 citations , April 1977 in “PubMed”

Minoxidil, a blood pressure drug, can cause excessive hair growth, but this can be successfully treated with a hair removal agent called calcium thioglycolate.