JAK Inhibitors in the Treatment of Alopecia Areata: Efficacy, Safety, and Long-Term Outcomes

JAK inhibitors are effective in treating moderate to severe alopecia areata by suppressing immune-mediated inflammation around hair follicles, allowing hair regrowth. A systematic review of 40 studies showed that baricitinib and deuruxolitinib led to significant scalp hair regrowth in about one third of patients, while ritlecitinib was effective in about one quarter. Adverse events were mostly mild to moderate, with serious events being rare. Continuous therapy is often necessary to maintain hair regrowth, as stopping treatment frequently leads to relapse. Careful patient selection and monitoring are crucial for optimizing long-term outcomes.