Alopecia, also known as hair loss, is a medical condition that affects both men and women. It is a common problem worldwide and is caused by various factors, including genetics, hormonal changes, and medical conditions.

There have been various treatments and remedies for alopecia over the years, but scientists have now discovered a new cure for alopecia – arthritis medicine. This article will explore the study conducted and the result obtained on the effectiveness of arthritis medicine for the treatment of alopecia.

The Study Conducted

The study was conducted to examine the effectiveness of tofacitinib citrate, a type of arthritis medicine, in treating alopecia. The study was conducted by researchers at Columbia University in New York City.

The study involved 66 patients with moderate to severe alopecia areata, a type of alopecia that causes patchy hair loss.

The participants were divided into two groups. The first group received a placebo, while the second group received tofacitinib citrate. The medicine was administered twice a day for six months.

The participants were examined at the start of the study and at the end of six months. The researchers assessed hair regrowth with the SALT score, which ranges from 0 to 100%, and is based on the percentage of scalp hair regrowth.

The Results Obtained

The results of the study showed that the participants who received tofacitinib citrate had a significantly higher rate of hair regrowth compared to those who received a placebo.

The patients who received tofacitinib citrate had an average of 92% hair regrowth, while those who received a placebo had an average of 30% hair regrowth.

The researchers noted that tofacitinib citrate worked particularly well in patients with less extensive hair loss. Patients who had less than 50% hair loss at the start of the study had a higher chance of responding to the medication.

Additionally, the medication was more effective when started early in the course of the disease.

How Tofacitinib Citrate Works

Tofacitinib citrate is a type of arthritis medicine that works by inhibiting Janus kinases enzymes. These enzymes are involved in the immune system’s response, and when inhibited, they reduce inflammation and allow hair to regrow.

By reducing the autoimmune response that causes alopecia, tofacitinib citrate helps to promote hair regrowth.

Potential Side Effects

Like all medications, tofacitinib citrate has potential side effects. The most common side effects reported in the study were headache, upper respiratory tract infections, and diarrhea.

The medication may also increase the risk of infections and decreased blood counts. It is crucial to talk to a doctor before starting the medication to assess the benefits and risks of the treatment.

Limitations of the Study

The study conducted on tofacitinib citrate was limited by its small sample size. Additionally, the study did not have a long-term follow-up, so the effectiveness of the treatment over an extended period is currently unknown.

Further research is needed to determine the long-term effectiveness of the medication and its potential side effects.

Conclusion

Alopecia is a common medical condition that affects millions of people worldwide. With the recent discovery of tofacitinib citrate’s effectiveness in treating alopecia, there are now more treatment options available to patients.

While the medication has its potential side effects, the benefits of the treatment may outweigh the risks in some cases. It is crucial to talk to a doctor to assess the best course of treatment for alopecia.