FDA approval of Deuruxolitinib: A New Treatment Option for Severe Alopecia Areata

Fourth Year Medical Student, Ziauddin Medical College, Karachi, Pakistan

*Corresponding author: Tooba Javed, Fourth Year Medical Student, Ziauddin Medical College, Karachi, Pakistan, Phone: 03331270058, E-mail: [email protected]

Received Date: August 03, 2024

Publication Date: October 22, 2024

Citation: Javed T. (2024). FDA approval of Deuruxolitinib: A New Treatment Option for Severe Alopecia Areata. Clin Res. 5(1):23.

Copyright: Javed T. © (2024).

ABSTRACT

Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune condition leading to non-scarring hair loss, affecting 1-2% of the population. It results from T-cell infiltration in hair follicles, driven by cytokines such as interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and common gamma chain cytokines, which activate JAK signaling pathways. Traditional therapies have included corticosteroids and immunosuppressants; however, JAK inhibitors have shown greater efficacy. In June 2022, the FDA approved baricitinib for AA, followed by ritlecitinib, and in July 2023, deuruxolitinib (Leqselvi) was approved for severe AA in adults. This approval stemmed from two phase 3 trials (THRIVE-AA1 and THRIVE-AA2) involving 1,220 patients, which demonstrated that deuruxolitinib significantly improved hair regrowth compared to placebo, with 29.6% and 41.5% of participants achieving a SALT score of ≤20 at 24 weeks for the 8 mg and 12 mg doses, respectively. The treatment was associated with manageable side effects, including headaches and acne, and did not present significant cardiovascular risks. Overall, deuruxolitinib offers a promising and effective treatment option for severe alopecia areata, warranting further investigation into long-term safety and effects post-treatment.

Keywords: Alopecia Areata, Cytokines, Cardiovascular Risks, Adults