Which JAK inhibitors work best for severe scalp and seborrheic psoriasis?
Currently, there's one FDA-approved oral JAK inhibitor for psoriasis: Sotyktu (deucravacitinib). This medication is approved for moderate to severe plaque psoriasis and can be taken once daily.
While Sotyktu isn't specifically approved for scalp Show Full Answer
Which JAK inhibitors work best for severe scalp and seborrheic psoriasis?
Currently, there's one FDA-approved oral JAK inhibitor for psoriasis: Sotyktu (deucravacitinib). This medication is approved for moderate to severe plaque psoriasis and can be taken once daily.
While Sotyktu isn't specifically approved for scalp psoriasis, it works systemically throughout your body, which means it targets psoriasis wherever it appears, including the scalp. Studies have shown that people taking JAK inhibitors experienced significant decreases in skin discoloration, itching, and skin thickness associated with plaque psoriasis.
It's worth noting that researchers are also studying topical JAK inhibitors that you could apply directly to affected areas like the scalp, though these aren't yet approved for psoriasis.
For psoriatic arthritis (if you also have joint symptoms), two other JAK inhibitors are available: Xeljanz (tofacitinib) and Rinvoq (upadacitinib), but these aren't currently approved for skin psoriasis.
Your dermatologist can help determine if Sotyktu or another systemic treatment would be right for your specific situation, especially for severe scalp involvement.
December 9, 2025
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