Alopecia Drug Development Update: July to September 2024
Written By: Adam Best
Reviewed by: Ramin Eshtiagi, MD.
Published November 7, 2024
If you’re wondering about the latest medical research for alopecia you’re in the right place.
This article breaks down recent findings into two sections:
- Research insights that deepen our understanding of alopecia
- Drug and treatment advances with promise for managing the condition
Eirion Therapeutics Announces Initiation of First-in-Human Clinical Trial Evaluating Topical ET-02 for the Treatment of Androgenic Alopecia
Eirion Therapeutics has launched Phase I trials for ET-02, an innovative topical treatment targeting androgenic alopecia (age-related hair loss). ET-02 is designed to restore hair follicle function without using hormonal therapies, avoiding many related side effects. According to the company, this new mechanism of action could set ET-02 apart from other treatments.
Although ET-02 is still in early trials, preliminary preclinical data suggest it may outperform existing market leaders like Minoxidil and Finasteride. Further studies are needed before approval can be sought, but this research introduces a novel option for alopecia treatment.
U.S. FDA Approves LEQSELVI™ (deuruxolitinib), an Oral JAK Inhibitor for the Treatment of Severe Alopecia Areata
On July 25, 2024, the FDA approved Leqselvi, an advanced oral JAK1 and JAK2 inhibitor for treating severe alopecia areata. This approval marks an important step forward, especially for autoimmune-related hair loss, where many existing treatments fall short.
Leqselvi is now the third JAK inhibitor approved in the U.S., joining Baricitinib (Olumiant) and Ritlecitinib (Litfulo). While Leqselvi and Olumiant target JAK1 and JAK2 pathways, Ritlecitinib works on the JAK3 pathway, providing unique options for immune signal modulation.
In recent clinical trials, approximately 33% of patients achieved 80% scalp hair coverage by week 24, starting from an average of 13%. Only 3.1% of patients discontinued Leqselvi due to adverse effects, demonstrating its safety profile. Compared to alternatives, Leqselvi offers comparable or even faster results.
Pelage Pharmaceuticals Advances Clinical Program with First Patients Dosed in Phase 2 Study for Hair Loss and GV-Led $14M Series A-1
Pelage Pharmaceuticals has entered Phase II trials with ET-02, a new topical treatment for androgenic alopecia. This non-hormonal solution aims to restore normal hair follicle function through a unique mechanism, positioning it as a promising alternative to current options. Early data suggest that ET-02 may outperform treatments like Minoxidil, potentially marking a new chapter in alopecia care.
Crnic Institute Clinical Trial Shows JAK Inhibitor Improves Multiple Autoimmune Conditions in Patients With Down Syndrome
The Linda Crnic Institute for Down Syndrome has reported positive results from a clinical trial using the JAK inhibitor tofacitinib (XELJANZ®) to treat autoimmune conditions common in people with Down syndrome. Conditions such as alopecia areata, atopic dermatitis, and psoriasis showed significant improvement, with reductions in inflammatory markers and enhanced symptom management. These findings suggest a promising new treatment pathway, with further trials planned to confirm long-term safety and effectiveness.
Amplifica’s AMP-303 Study Unveils New Hope for Hair Loss Treatments
In a recent clinical trial, Amplifica’s AMP-303 treatment for androgenetic alopecia (AGA) demonstrated significant results. The trial, designed to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of AMP-303, reported a statistically significant increase in non-vellus hair count (greater than 15%) after just one treatment cycle. Results were sustained for 150 days, with continued improvements in hair density and thickness over time.
The study involved male participants aged 18 to 45 with AGA, assessing both treated and untreated sides of the scalp for direct comparison. Not only did AMP-303 lead to a durable increase in non-vellus hair, but it also converted fine vellus hairs into thicker, non-vellus hairs—addressing a key gap in hair loss treatments.
Unlike daily-use treatments like Minoxidil or Finasteride, which mainly slow hair loss, AMP-303’s long-lasting effects and minimal side effects offer a more effective and convenient alternative, making it a potential game-changer in the field.
Conclusion
These are some of the exciting developments from the third quarter of 2024. With continued research and innovation, we look forward to more breakthroughs that can improve quality of life for people with alopecia.
Further Reading
Join a Clinical Trial for alopecia areata in Barrie
We are currently recruiting patients for clinical trials on alopecia areata (A.A.). If you’ve found that standard treatments haven’t worked, you may qualify for a study exploring a potential new therapy. This could be an opportunity to discover an effective treatment and help advance options for others with A.A.
SimcoDerm is a full service, comprehensive dermatology clinic located in Barrie. We provide our services to all the patients in Simcoe County and beyond.
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