In 2023, more and more alopecia areata patients are visiting their dermatologists. If their initial diagnosis was many years ago, patients may not have visited their dermatologists for their alopecia areata in a long time.
Now that there are FDA-approved medications for moderate to severe alopecia areata, a patient may want to revisit their doctor. The patient may want to ask their doctor if the JAK (Janus kinase) medication is appropriate for them.
Olumiant (baricitinib) is one of the medications from Eli Lilly. Another is LITFULO™ (ritlecitinib) from Pfizer. JAK drugs that are approved for alopecia areata are relatively new, FDA-approved since 2022.
Seek out a dermatologist who is familiar with this new use of JAK. This medical provider may or may not be the same person who first diagnosed you. Find a doctor who is fully up to speed.
Here Are Some Tips to Help You Prepare for Your Dermatology Appointment
- Know the reason for your visit and what you want to happen.
- Before your visit, write down questions you want answered.
- Bring someone with you to help you ask questions and remember what your provider tells you.
- At the visit, write down the name of a new diagnosis, and any new medicines, treatments, or tests. Also write down any new instructions your provider gives you.
- Know why a new medicine or treatment is prescribed, and how it will help you. Also know what the side effects are.
- Ask if your condition can be treated in other ways.
- Know why a test or procedure is recommended and what the results could mean.
- Know what to expect if you do not take the medicine or have the test or procedure.
- If you have a follow-up appointment, write down the date, time, and purpose for that visit.
- Know how you can contact your provider if you have questions.