At the 2025 Society of Dermatology Physician Associates (SDPA) Fall Conference in San Antonio, Dr. Gabriela Maloney, a dermatologist at Forefront Dermatology, discussed the use of off-label Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors. In a subsequent interview with HCPLive, she emphasized the safety and efficacy of these medications compared to traditional treatments like systemic steroids and methotrexate.
Dr. Maloney highlighted that JAK inhibitors generally present a lower risk of severe side effects. She pointed out that chronic systemic steroid use can lead to serious conditions such as Cushing’s syndrome, hyperglycemia, diabetes, hypertension, osteoporosis, and osteonecrosis. “When you compare it to side effects of chronic systemic steroid use, those side effects pale in comparison,” Maloney stated.
Examining the safety profile of methotrexate, a chemotherapy agent, she noted additional risks. “It has pulmonary toxicity, renal toxicity, bone marrow toxicity, so a lot of other concerns that can happen as well,” she said. Despite the current lack of direct comparative research, Maloney advocates for discussions regarding the side effects of these treatments among clinicians.
Potential of JAK Inhibitors in Treating Dermatological Conditions
Dr. Maloney also discussed specific JAK inhibitors, such as abrocitinib (marketed as Cibinqo), which shows promise in treating conditions like vitiligo and hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). She noted that Cibinqo does not cause significant lipid alterations or weight gain, making it a favorable option for patients.
“I think one that’s really a hot topic right now is upadacitinib, or Rinvoq,” Maloney explained. She mentioned ongoing clinical trials investigating its effectiveness for vitiligo and HS. “Hopefully we’ll have more availability pretty soon,” she added.
The insights shared by Dr. Maloney during the SDPA Fall Conference reflect a growing interest in JAK inhibitors as a viable alternative in dermatology, potentially reshaping treatment protocols for various skin conditions.
For further information on dermatology topics presented at the 2025 SDPA Fall Conference, readers can refer to the latest conference coverage available on our site. The quotes used in this summary were edited for clarity.
