People living with alopecia areata — an autoimmune disease that causes sudden hair loss — now have a promising new treatment option. Sun Pharma has announced the U.S. launch of Leqselvi (deuruxolitinib) 8 mg, a newly FDA-approved oral medication for adults with severe cases of the condition.
Alopecia areata affects about 2.5% of people during their lifetime and can take a heavy emotional toll — from lost confidence to social withdrawal. That’s why a treatment that not only works well, but works quickly, is making headlines.
What Makes Leqselvi Different?
In large clinical trials — known as THRIVE-AA1 and THRIVE-AA2 — Leqselvi showed powerful and fast results. Among the 1,223 adults in the studies:
- About 33% saw near-total hair regrowth by 24 weeks
- A smaller group — 3% — regrew 80% of hair by Week 8
- Many participants who continued in the 68-week open-label extension achieved over 80% scalp coverage
Dr. Arash Mostaghimi, vice chair of Clinical Trials and Innovation at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, said:
“Leqselvi provides clinicians with an important new treatment that can deliver significant, rapid outcomes for patients with alopecia areata.”
Side Effects and Safety Info
As with any medication, side effects are possible. The most commonly reported with Leqselvi include:
- Headache (12%)
- Acne (10%)
- Nasopharyngitis, or mild cold symptoms (8%)
These rates were slightly higher than those seen in the placebo group. Leqselvi should be avoided in patients with certain genetic metabolic conditions or those taking medications that could interfere with how the drug works.
Helping Patients Get Access
To ensure more people can benefit from this breakthrough, Sun Pharma has launched the LEQSELVI SUPPORT Program. Eligible adults may receive the drug at no cost for up to two years. The program also includes:
- Personalized help from a patient access liaison
- Insurance and coverage support
- Ongoing treatment guidance
This kind of assistance can make a big difference for patients navigating a new diagnosis or complex insurance processes.
A Milestone for the Alopecia Community
Nicole Friedland, president and CEO of the National Alopecia Areata Foundation (NAAF), expressed her excitement:
“The availability of Leqselvi offers hope to our community… We’re thrilled to see expanded choices and increased opportunities for individuals to find an FDA-approved treatment to address hair loss caused by this autoimmune disease.”
A New Chapter in Hair Loss Treatment
Leqselvi is more than just a new medication — it represents a hopeful step forward for people living with the visible and emotional challenges of alopecia areata. With fast results, clinical support, and a compassionate access program, it’s giving patients more than just hair — it’s giving them confidence and control.