UAE approves first oral medication for vitiligo treatment

The United Arab Emirates has become the first country in the world to approve the oral use of Rinvoq (upadacitinib) for the treatment of non-segmental vitiligo. The Emirates Drug Establishment (EDE) announced the approval for adults and adolescents aged 12 and older who require systemic therapy.

Vitiligo is a chronic autoimmune skin condition characterized by the loss of pigment, resulting in white patches on the skin. Rinvoq functions as a Janus kinase inhibitor, which regulates immune system hyperactivity to block inflammatory signals. The medication is administered as a once-daily oral pill, providing a systemic alternative for eligible patients.