JAK inhibitors for alopecia areata
JAK inhibitors are a promising treatment option for alopecia areata, targeting the underlying inflammatory processes to promote hair regrowth.
What are JAK inhibitors?
JAK inhibitors are a class of medications that block the signalling pathways of various inflammatory and immune system responses.
By interfering with these pathways, JAK inhibitors help reduce inflammation and modulate the immune system, making them effective in treating conditions like alopecia areata, rheumatoid arthritis, and other autoimmune disorders.
How does a JAK inhibitor work?
JAK inhibitors block the signalling of specific inflammatory pathways that contribute to hair loss. Once they have been disrupted, inflammation begins to reduce, allowing the hair follicle to recover and for hair to grow again.
Which JAK inhibitors work for alopecia areata?
The following JAK inhibitors have been approved in the UK to treat alopecia areata:
Baricitinib (Olumiant)
A tablet taken once a day and approved only for adults
Ritlecitinib (Litfulo)
A capsule taken once a day and approved for both children (from age 12 and over) and adults
JAK inhibitors versus other alopecia treatment options
| Treatment option | How it works | Effectiveness | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| JAK inhibitors | Blocks JAK pathway to reduce inflammation and immune response | Varies by patient; best reserved for more severe cases | Baricitinib, Ritlecitinib, Deuruxolitinib |
| Steroid injections | Targets localised inflammation with direct injections | Effective for localised patches; requires repeated sessions | Triamcinolone acetonide |
| Contact immunotherapy | Provokes an allergic reaction to redirect immune response | Effective for some patients with limited disease; requires multiple treatments | Diphencyprone |
| Hair growth stimulants | Promotes hair growth by stimulating hair follicles | Can be effective for certain types of alopecia; results vary | Minoxidil |
What are the potential side effects of JAK inhibitors?
JAK inhibitors are generally well tolerated by the majority of patients. However, like all medications, they do come with possible side effects.
Common side effects
- •Headaches
- •Nausea
- •Common cold / Upper Respiratory Tract Infections
- •Urine infections (in rare cases)
Less common / rare side effects
- •Cold sore reactivation
- •Shingles
- •Blood clots – Deep Vein Thrombosis or Pulmonary Embolus
- •Possible weight gain
- •Chest infection
How do you weigh the risks and benefits of using JAK inhibitors?
When you first come in for a consultation for any hair or scalp condition, we will always assess your background and medical history to determine whether a treatment option is appropriate for you. It is important to always be transparent with us so we can propose the best option for you.
We will always raise any concerns we have about treatment options and discuss these with you before continuing.
How long do they take to work?
JAK inhibitors typically start showing effects within a few months of treatment. For conditions like alopecia areata, some patients may begin to see signs of hair regrowth within 6 to 12 weeks, though full results can take longer, often around 6-12 months. The exact timeline will always vary depending on the individual's response to the medication and the severity of their condition.
JAK inhibitors FAQs
Accreditations & memberships
Our consultants are members of leading UK and international dermatology and hair specialist bodies.
- Royal College of Physicians
- European Hair Research Society (EHRS)
- British Association of Dermatologists
- British Hair & Nail Society
- American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD)
- European Academy of Dermatology & Venereology (EADV)