2024 Approvals

Leqselvi: A New Treatment for Severe Alopecia Areata Approved July 25, 2024

Jasmine C

21 Aug 2025 — 1 min read

Leqselvi A New Treatment for Severe Alopecia Areata

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What is it prescribed for?

Leqselvi is indicated for the treatment of adults with severe alopecia areata (patchy hair loss).

What is the name of the drug and what does it do?

Leqselvi (pronounced lek-sel-vee), (generic name: deuruxolitinib), is a medication used to treat adults with severe alopecia areata, a condition characterized by significant hair loss.

How does it work?

Leqselvi is a Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor. JAKs are enzymes that play a crucial role in the signaling pathways inside cells, especially those involved in the immune system and inflammation.

When these enzymes are overactive, they can contribute to diseases where the immune system attacks the body's own cells, such as alopecia areata.

By inhibiting JAKs, Leqselvi helps to reduce this immune attack on hair follicles, promoting hair regrowth.

What did the research discover?

Clinical trials have shown that Leqselvi significantly improves hair regrowth in patients with severe alopecia areata.

In two major trials, a higher proportion of patients treated with Leqselvi achieved at least 80% scalp hair coverage compared to those given a placebo.

The trials also demonstrated patient satisfaction with hair regrowth, highlighting the drug's efficacy in restoring hair in those affected by this condition.

What are some of the side effects?

Headache
Acne
Nasopharyngitis
Increased levels of creatine phosphokinase
Hyperlipidemia
Fatigue
Weight gain
Lymphopenia
Thrombocytosis
Anemia
Skin and soft tissue infections

What are the dosage recommendations and how is it prescribed?

Leqselvi is prescribed as an 8 mg tablet taken orally twice daily, with or without food. It is important to follow the healthcare provider’s instructions regarding the dosage and administration of Leqselvi.

The treatment may be interrupted if serious side effects occur, such as infections or significant blood abnormalities.

Source:

Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, Inc. Leqselvi (deuruxolitinib) tablets, for oral use. Prescribing Information. 2024. Available from: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2024/217900s000lbl.pdf

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