VIDEO: Reduce JAK inhibitors 'cautiously and slowly' in patients with alopecia areata

NEW ORLEANS — In this Healio video exclusive, Ronda S. Farah, MD, discusses how reducing Janus kinase inhibitor dosages in patients with alopecia areata should be completed safely.

Farah spoke about the research by Brett King, MD, PhD, and colleagues, which was presented at the American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting, that examined how Janus kinase inhibitors, such as baricitinib, can successfully be reduced in patients over time if done with caution.

“If you read the label, you can actually see that you can reduce the dosing, but to do so cautiously and slowly,” Farah, associate professor at the University of Minnesota, said. “There is a risk of hair loss in alopecia areata when using baricitinib.”

Reference:

• King B, et al. The world of JAK inhibitors: Alopecia areata. Presented at: American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting; March 17-21, 2023; New Orleans.