Ruxolitinib at a glance
Medicine class
Topical JAK1 and JAK2 inhibitor
Licensed use
Non-segmental vitiligo with facial involvement
Who it is for
Adults and adolescents aged 12 and over
Administration
For affected skin only; wash hands after use unless treating them
What is Ruxolitinib used for?
The selected UK product is licensed for:
Non-segmental vitiligo involving the face in adults and adolescents aged 12 and over.
How does Ruxolitinib work?
Ruxolitinib blocks JAK1 and JAK2, reducing signals that attract immune cells to pigment-producing melanocytes. This can reduce immune damage and permit gradual repigmentation.
Ruxolitinib preparations and strengths
Cream
Route: Cutaneous
Strengths: 15 mg/g
How to take Ruxolitinib
Use the cream only on affected skin identified by the prescriber.
Keep it away from the eyes, mouth, lips, vagina and other mucous membranes; rinse accidental exposure with water.
Wash your hands after application unless they are being treated.
Avoid washing treated skin immediately afterwards.
Wipe off any excess if too much is applied.
Ruxolitinib side effects
Common or expected effects
- Acne where the cream is applied.
- Local irritation or contact dermatitis caused by some cream ingredients.
Get urgent medical advice
- A painful, blistering rash suggesting shingles, particularly near the eye or with visual symptoms.
- A significant or persistent allergic skin reaction.
Ruxolitinib in pregnancy
Ruxolitinib cream is contraindicated during pregnancy. Effective contraception is required during treatment and for the product-specified period after stopping. Contact the prescriber if pregnancy occurs or is planned.
Ruxolitinib while breastfeeding
Ruxolitinib cream is contraindicated while breastfeeding. A washout period is required before breastfeeding begins, so discuss planning with the specialist prescriber.
Ruxolitinib interactions
Systemic interaction risk is considered low after topical use, but same-site combinations require care.
Other topical vitiligo treatments
Do not apply them together on the same skin area because the combination has not been evaluated.
Sunscreens, emollients and other topical products
Do not layer them directly over ruxolitinib; follow the separation instructions in the product leaflet.
Narrow-band ultraviolet B phototherapy
The safety and effectiveness of combining it with ruxolitinib cream are not established; specialist review is needed.
Common questions about Ruxolitinib
Answers are fully visible for fast scanning and source review.
Is ruxolitinib cream a steroid?
No. It is a topical JAK1 and JAK2 inhibitor that changes immune signalling involved in vitiligo.
Which type of vitiligo does it treat?
The selected UK licence covers non-segmental vitiligo involving the face.
Can children use it?
It is licensed from age 12. Safety and effectiveness below age 12 have not been established.
Can it be applied to the lips or around the eyes?
Do not apply it to the lips, eyes or mucous membranes. Rinse thoroughly with water after accidental exposure.
Sources
These sources were used to prepare and review this medicine page.
Prepared and reviewed by the iatroX editorial team.