JAMA Dermatol

Baricitinib and phototherapy combo shows promise for vitiligo treatment

January 28, 2025

Combining baricitinib with phototherapy can significantly reduce vitiligo activity and improve repigmentation, potentially offering a promising treatment option for patients with severe disease.

Study details: This multicenter, double-blind, proof-of-concept phase 2 randomized trial assessed the efficacy and safety of baricitinib combined with narrowband UV-B phototherapy in adults with severe, active nonsegmental vitiligo. Conducted across four dermatology departments from July 2021 to April 2023, the study included 49 participants who were randomized 3:1 to receive either baricitinib (4 mg/day) or placebo for 36 weeks. Phototherapy was added from weeks 12 to 36.

Results: The baricitinib group showed a mean reduction of 44.8% in the Vitiligo Area Scoring Index (VASI) at week 36, compared with a 9.2% reduction in the placebo group (p = .02). Significant improvements in disease activity and quality of life were observed in the baricitinib group, with no notable increase in adverse events.

Source:

Seneschal J, et al. (2025, January 22). JAMA Dermatol. Combination of Baricitinib and Phototherapy in Adults With Active Vitiligo: A Randomized Clinical Trial. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39841460/