Tofacitinib citrate, a potential ‘miracle cure’ for hair loss from Alopecia Universalis, has hit the headlines in recent days after the product regrew the hair of a man with this severe condition which causes total baldness. What we have been surprised to see here at The Belgravia Centre is the fact that none of the tabloids have reported on the risk of serious side effects that come with the use of this medication. These side effects include serious infections, tuberculosis and cancer. We examine the condition, this latest treatment and the studies surrounding the controversial drug.
Tofacitinib is a pill that is taken either as 5 mg twice per day (Xeljanz®) or as 11 mg once per day (Xeljanz XR®). You may take tofacitinib tablets with or without food. People with moderate to severe renal impairment or moderate hepatic impairment should take only one 5 mg tablet per day. Tofacitinib may be used alone or in combination with methotrexate or other DMARDs. Tofacitinib should not be given in combination with another biologic drug or other potent immunosuppressants such as azathioprine or mycophenolate. Some patients will start to see improvement within a few weeks, but it may take several months to take full effect. Blood tests will be used to monitor for increases in cholesterol or liver enzymes and for reductions in blood cell counts while taking tofacitinib.
