A new study has revealed that JAK inhibitors dramatically improve alopecia areata. Within six months, patients suffering with severe alopecia areata experienced significant hair regrowth when taking JAK inhibitors.
So, could this be the answer to finally curing the condition? Here we take a look at the findings of the latest study and whether JAK inhibitors could be a viable treatment option for alopecia areata in the future.
Study shows 40% of patients experience dramatic regrowth with JAK inhibitors
The results of the latest study, presented at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology, revealed 40% of patients experienced significant regrowth with JAK inhibitor treatment. It was the second phase in the Phase III THRIVE-AA2 trial, and the results have provided hope for a cure for alopecia areata.
Nearly 40% of study participants experienced a minimum of 80% hair regrowth on their scalp when given a higher dose of deuruxolitinib (CTP-543), a JAK 1/2 inhibitor. Impressively, 35% achieved 90% or more regrowth. A lower dose resulted in at least 80% regrowth for one-third of the participants.
Noticeable hair regrowth was observed by the 12th week in the 24-week study. Patients who had lost their eyelashes and eyebrows also experienced considerable regrowth in those areas.
Could JAK inhibitors be a viable treatment option?
The latest results into the effectiveness of JAK inhibitors to treat alopecia areata are exciting, but could it really be the cure patients have been looking for? While it does provide hope for many of those suffering with the condition, it is worth noting that it didn’t work for everyone.
A single patient dropped out of the trial due to the drug being ineffective. However, there were also instances where patients experienced significant adverse effects. However, out of the five severe negative effects reported, just pneumonia influenza was found to be related solely to the treatment.
Even though it may not be effective for everyone, the fact JAK inhibitors have shown to provide significant improvement in 40% of patients makes it a viable future treatment option. More research will need to be undertaken, but current results are promising.
Current treatment options for Alopecia Areata
JAK inhibitor treatments may still be a long way off for mainstream alopecia areata treatment. Although currently there is no cure, there are treatment options available for those suffering with the condition.
Steroid creams and topical treatments can be used to temporarily slow down and halt hair loss and thinning. Local steroid injections are also available for the brows and scalp where small patches of hair loss have occurred. Minoxidil is another effective temporary treatment.
If you are experiencing hair loss or thinning due to alopecia areata, book an appointment with a dermatologist that specialises in hair loss today. After undergoing an assessment, they will be able to create a customised treatment plan to help manage and treat the condition.
