A NARRATIVE REVIEW ON EVALUATING THE SAFETY OF JANUS KINASE (JAK) INHIBITORS IN DERMATOLOGICAL PRACTICE: A CLINICAL AND LABORATORY PERSPECTIVE.

Abstract

The introduction of Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors has modernized the treatment of various dermatological conditions by targeting the JAK-STAT signaling pathway, essential in the pathogenesis of inflammatory and auto-immune diseases. Despite their therapeutic potential, concerns regarding their safety and tolerability necessitate a comprehensive review. To synthesize current knowledge on the safety and tolerability of JAK inhibitors in dermatology, focusing on adverse effects, to advise clinical practice and guide future research. A systematic literature search identified studies reporting on the adverse effects of JAK inhibitors in dermatological treatments. The review highlights common adverse effects, including infections, hematological changes, and increased risks of malignancies and cardiovascular events. Despite these concerns, JAK inhibitors are generally well-tolerated, with most adverse effects being manageable. Quality assessments of included studies indicate a moderate level of evidence, pointing to the need for ongoing surveillance and research. The findings underscore the importance of careful patient selection, monitoring, and management strategies to mitigate the risks associated with JAK inhibitor therapy. Further long-term studies are essential to fully understand the safety profile of these drugs and their impact on patient outcomes. The review supports the development of clinical guidelines for the use of JAK inhibitors, emphasizing risk assessment, patient education, and regular monitoring. It also highlights the need for post-marketing surveillance to capture real-world data on the long-term safety and efficacy of these treatments.