Alopecia Areata (AA) is a condition where the immune system attacks hair follicles, causing hair loss, usually on the head and face. This study tests the safety and effectiveness of an approved drug, upadacitinib, for treating severe AA in adults and teens. Participants will take daily tablets for up to 160 weeks. Some will receive a placebo, a tablet with no medicine, to compare results. Participants could be reassigned to different treatment groups at weeks 24 and 52, and those who complete initial phases might join another study for up to 108 weeks. 1500 participants will be enrolled worldwide.
- Participation lasts up to 160 weeks, with regular hospital or clinic visits.
- Participants will take either upadacitinib or placebo pills daily.
- Higher treatment burden compared to standard care; involves check-ups and tests.
Eligible participants must be under 64 (12+ in some locations), have a SALT score of 50 or more, and have had AA for less than 8 years. People with certain other hair or scalp conditions are not eligible.