What is the new NHS-approved cream for vitiligo?

The new NHS-approved cream for vitiligo is Ruxolitinib, sold under the brand name Opzelura.

Who is eligible for the Ruxolitinib cream on the NHS?

Ruxolitinib is recommended for patients aged 12 and over with non-segmental vitiligo affecting the face, when other topical treatments have failed or are not suitable.

How effective is the Ruxolitinib cream for vitiligo?

Trials found that patients using ruxolitinib were four times more likely to have their facial skin colour restored compared to those on a placebo treatment.

Home / Health / New Hope for 80,000 England Vitiligo Sufferers

New Hope for 80,000 England Vitiligo Sufferers

24 Feb

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Summary

Ruxolitinib cream is the first licensed treatment for vitiligo on the NHS.
The cream helps regrow natural skin colour by calming immune system attacks.
Trials showed patients were four times more likely to regain facial skin colour.

New Hope for 80,000 England Vitiligo Sufferers

A groundbreaking new cream, Ruxolitinib, has received approval for use on the NHS in England, marking a significant development for the estimated 80,000 individuals living with vitiligo. This marks the first licensed treatment for the chronic skin condition to be recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice).

The cream, known by the brand name Opzelura, is recommended for patients aged 12 and over with non-segmental vitiligo affecting the face, particularly when other topical treatments have proven ineffective or unsuitable. It is applied twice daily to calm the immune system's attack on pigment-producing cells, thereby allowing the skin to regain its natural colour.