Title:Tofacitinib, an Oral Janus Kinase Inhibitor: Perspectives in Dermatology
VOLUME: 24 ISSUE: 11
Author(s):Kresimir Kostovic*, Sandra J. Gulin, Zrinka B. Mokos and Romana Ceovic
Affiliation:Department of Dermatovenereology, University Hospital Center Zagreb, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Salata 4, 10000 Zagreb, Department of Infectious Diseases and Dermatovenereology, General Hospital Sibenik, Stjepana Radica 83, 22000 Sibenik, Department of Dermatovenereology, University Hospital Center Zagreb, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Salata 4, 10000 Zagreb, Department of Dermatovenereology, University Hospital Center Zagreb, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Salata 4, 10000 Zagreb
Keywords:Tofacitinib, CP690550, protein kinase inhibitor, JAK/STAT pathway, small molecule, psoriasis, alopecia
areata, vitiligo.
Abstract:Background: Tofacitinib (formerly known as CP-690,550, CP690550, tasocitinib),
a novel selective immunosuppressant, is a small molecule classified as Janus kinase inhibitor.
The aim of this review article is to present updated data summary on the tofacitinib in the
field of dermatology.
Method: We undertook a structured search of bibliographic databases for peer-reviewed
scientific articles, including review articles, original research articles as well as case report
articles based on inclusion/exclusion criteria. Technical reports on tofacitinib from U.S. Food
and Drug Administration and European Medical Agency were also included.
Results: Forty-three papers were included in this review. We report current data on tofacitinib
chemical properties, pharmacology, non-clinical toxicity, as well as efficacy and safety in potential
new indications in dermatology: psoriasis, alopecia areata, vitiligo, atopic dermatitis
and nail dystrophy associated with alopecia areata.
Conclusion: JAK/STAT pathway has an important role in the pathogenesis of psoriasis,
alopecia areata, atopic dermatitis, and vitiligo. Despite encouraging efficacy, due to concerns
about the overall safety profile of tofacitinib, additional studies will have to determine the
adequate risk-to-benefit ratio.
