Restoring pigment in skin: The only approved medicine (and how to get it in Poland)

Losing skin pigment can be more than just a cosmetic issue. It affects self-confidence, social interactions, and overall well-being. While it's not the only reason for skin depigmentation, vitiligo is the most common one. In Poland, between 0.5-4% of people are affected, sometimes starting before the age of 20 ¹.

For years, treatment options were limited to light therapy, or corticosteroids. However, since 2023, a medicine has been approved specifically for restoring pigment to skin in vitiligo patients. If you or someone you know is struggling with pigment loss due to vitiligo, here’s what you need to know about the only approved treatment, and how to get it in Poland.

Understanding pigment loss in vitiligo

Vitiligo is a chronic autoimmune condition. It occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the cells responsible for producing melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. Over time, this leads to white or depigmented areas appearing on different parts of the body.

The exact cause of vitiligo isn’t fully understood. Researchers believe it’s linked to a combination of genetic factors, immune system dysfunction, and environmental triggers.

In some cases, small areas of skin may regain pigment on their own, but for most people, vitiligo progresses over time. That’s why medical treatments, especially those that target the immune response, are crucial for restoring pigment effectively.

What is the only approved treatment for restoring skin pigmentation

Currently, the only officially approved treatment for repigmentation caused by vitiligo, is Opzelura (ruxolitinib) cream. It's a non-steroidal, topical JAK inhibitor designed to reduce inflammation and encourage melanocyte activity.

How does Opzelura work for skin repigmentation?

Opzelura's active ingredient, ruxolitinib, works by blocking Janus kinase (JAK) enzymes. These enzymes play a role in immune system signaling. In vitiligo, the immune system mistakenly targets and destroys melanocytes. By inhibiting JAK pathways, Opzelura helps reduce immune system attacks. This allows melanocytes to recover and produce melanin again.

How effective is Opzelura?

Clinical trial results have reported these key outcomes:

• One-third of patients using Opzelura for 6 months reported a 75% improvement in their face pigmentation. Looking at the overall body pigmentation, 20-26% of patients saw a 50% improvement in this period;
• 51% of patients using Opzelura for 1 year reported a 75% improvement in their face pigmentation;
• 66% of patients using Opzelura for 2 years reported a 75% improvement in their face pigmentation ².

Is Opzelura available in Poland?

Opzelura(ruxolitinib) has been approved in the EU, including Poland, since 2023. While Opzelura is unfortunately not reimbursed by the National Health Fund, it should be available to buy locally ³. While this is positive, actual availability can vary a lot. If you are struggling to find it in pharmacies and have any issues getting the medicine after it's been prescribed to you, you can contact our expert team. We'll help you get Opzelura in Poland right away.

How to get treatment for skin depigmentation in Poland

If you’re considering Opzelura (ruxolitinib) as a way to restore pigmentation on your skin, here are the steps to take in order to access it in Poland:

• Consult a specialist

Your first step is to visit a dermatologist who specializes in vitiligo. Not all dermatologists are familiar with ruxolitinib. That's why it may be best to seek out doctors who focus on vitiligo and autoimmune skin conditions.

• Get a prescription

Your doctor is the only one who can determine if ruxolitinib is suitable for you. They will provide a prescription, along with usage guidelines.

• Buy Opzelura

Opzelura (ruxolitinib) should be available at pharmacies and dermatology clinics in Poland. If a local pharmacy does not stock it, they may be able to order it upon request.

Are you struggling to find Opzelura in Poland? You can always get in touch with Everyone.org. We specialize in helping patients get medicines that aren't available in their countries.

There's always a way to get the newest treatment

Unfortunately, it takes an extra 2 years on average for medicines to get to Poland after they're approved in the EU. Not all conditions can wait.

Whether it's for skin repigmentation or another condition, it's important for you as a patient to know that you can always get the medicine you need. Regardless of whether it's available in Poland.

Get in touch with our expert Medicine Access team for more information on early access options.

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References:

1. Dermatology Review/Przegląd Dermatologiczny. Termedia.pl, Accessed 18 February 2025.
2. Trial Results | OPZELURA® (ruxolitinib) for Nonsegmental Vitiligo. Opzelura, Accessed 18 February 2025.
3. Rekomendacja 30/2024. Aotm.gov.pl, Accessed 18 February 2025.