Could JAK Inhibitors Be Developed for Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia?'

Name: 

Meryl

Question: I am post-menopausal and because I have an autoimmune disease, I suffer from Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia. I find this very distressing as I have already lost 3 - 4 inches of hair from my hairline. Is there a possibility that eventually this condition can be successfully treated with JAK Inhibitors?

Answer: Hi Meryl, at this stage it is impossible to say for certain whether JAK inhibitors could be developed to treat FFA in the future. They have not yet been cleared for use on Alopecia Areata/Totalis/Universalis - the area of hair loss they are being actively explored for - and are still in the early stages of small scale clinical trials. Also, the stated goal after gaining clearance for treating these conditions is for the drug to be developed further in order to treat androgenetic alopecia (Male Pattern Baldness and Female Pattern Hair Loss).

There are, however, studies that point to various teams trying to develop cures or treatments for FFA. One study recently investigated corticosteriods for this use, whilst another potential hair loss treatment being explored involves lab-grown skin that contains active hair follicles and could help people with various forms of scarring alopecia - also known as cicatricial alopecia - including FFA.

We will keep the Belgravia blog updated on developments in this area and believe there is a stronger possibility now than ever before of a future treatment being developed for this permanent hair loss condition. Though please do be aware that this is a long process which can take a number of years to pass all necessary safety and efficacy tests. In the meantime, as this is causing you so much distress, you may want to investigate hair replacement systems - modern types of wigs and hair pieces which can be used with your own hair to create the effect of fuller hair. Or even discuss cut options with your hairdresser, who may be able to recommend cuts or styling techniques that can help to make the receding less obvious.