
Daily Pill Shows Color Return in Vitiligo Patients (Early Trials)
In two 48-week, placebo-controlled trials, the daily JAK inhibitor upadacitinib helped some people with generalized vitiligo regain skin color across the face and body. About 23–25% on the drug reached at least 75% facial color (vs 6–7% placebo), 19–21% regained half their color elsewhere, and 14% achieved 90% facial color, with improvements persisting beyond 48 weeks. While promising, most participants did not reach the main facial target and long-term durability and safety remain uncertain. The EU has approved the drug for eligible patients aged 12+, but darker-skinned groups were underrepresented; common side effects included infections, acne, headaches, and shingles. Ongoing follow-up for up to 112 more weeks aims to clarify lasting benefits.







