Uses of Opzelura for treating vitiligo
Vitiligo is a health condition in which one gradually loses skin color because of depigmented patches appearing on the skin. Essentially, the immune system begins attacking melanocytes, or the cells in the body that produce melanin, which is responsible for skin pigmentation. Although vitiligo has no definite cure, doctors usually suggest certain repigmentation treatments to alleviate its effects. Opzelura (ruxolitinib) is one such topical repigmentation option often prescribed to treat this skin condition.
About vitiligo
With approximately 1.9 million patients diagnosed with vitiligo in the country, it is a fairly common skin condition involving depigmented skin patches. These patches usually begin to appear on the face, hands, genitals, and around the openings in the body, but eventually, they may spread throughout the skin.
The discolored areas may progressively increase in size, and the disease can also affect one’s hair and the insides of the mouth. Further, those with conditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, thyroid, lupus, etc. are more vulnerable to vitiligo.
Opzelura for vitiligo
It is a first-line treatment option for vitiligo that has been approved by the FDA as a prescription cream to control melanocyte destruction and restore one’s natural skin pigmentation. Ruxolitinib is the main ingredient in Opzelura and it works to protect the skin’s melanocytes.
Who can apply Opzelura?
Since Opzelura is a prescription treatment, one should apply it only with a doctor’s prescription and under their guidance. In general, doctors prescribe Opzelura for patients with non-segmental vitiligo (patches appearing on both sides of the body), who are aged 12 years and above. This product can also be applied on sensitive areas like the eyes, mouth, and genitals. The treatment course may last over 24 weeks before one experiences visible results.
Before using Opzelura for vitiligo, one should speak with their doctor about the area(s) on which it should be applied more extensively. It is also important to check out the product’s safety information and regularly communicate with one’s dermatologist about how one’s skin responds to the treatment.