Researchers investigated the therapeutic potential of Ruxolitinib cream in patients with vitiligo, and it looks very promising.  Results of a 2-year Phase II study at 26 medical centres in 18 states were published in the Lancet just now.  

Ruxolitinib is part of a class of medications called Janus Kinase (JAK) inhibitors. Janus kinases play a significant role in the development of vitiligo, and thus blocking their signaling pathways with the drug can -- hypothetically  -- treat vitiligo. 

Findings from this study suggest that ruxolitinib cream might be an effective treatment option for patients with vitiligo. Once- and twice-daily application at various doses led to significant repigmentation of vitiligo lesions in the face and upper body. The highest response rate was seen with a higher dose, between 24 and 52 weeks of treatment. Some patients got 90% of the color back on the face, yet the majority reported over 50% improvement. The most common treatment-related adverse event was application site pruritus. Approximately 10% of the patients treated with the ruxolitinib cream experienced acne. 

Full approval of the drug is still a ways off, but the outlook is promising. The last Phase 3 clinical trilas for Ruxolitinib cream for vitiligo is scheduled to start at the end of this year.

Update May 17, 2021: Positive Outlook For Vitiligo With Topical Ruxolitinib