NCT07029828 · Pfizer
A Long-Term Study to Learn About The Study Medicine Called Ritlecitinib in Children With Severe Alopecia Areata.
(B7981028)
What this study is about
The purpose of this clinical trial is to learn about long-term safety and long-term effects of the study medicine (called ritlecitinib) for the potential treatment of severe alopecia areata, a condition that causes hair loss. This study is seeking participants who have: * previously completed one of Pfizer's pediatric studies for Alopecia Areata (B7981027 or B7981031).
View original scientific description
The purpose of this clinical trial is to learn about long-term safety and long-term effects of the study medicine (called ritlecitinib) for the potential treatment of severe alopecia areata, a condition that causes hair loss. This study is seeking participants who have: * previously completed one of Pfizer's pediatric studies for Alopecia Areata (B7981027 or B7981031). * at least 50% scalp hair loss due to alopecia areata (for participants enrolling from the study B7981031). * received varicella vaccination (2 doses) or have been infected by varicella zoster virus before based on blood test reports. All participants in this study will receive the study medicine (ritlecitinib). Participants who received ritlecitinib higher or lower doses in the parent Study B7981027 will continue receiving the same ritlecitinib dose in this trial. Participants who received placebo in the parent Study B7981027 and all participants from parent Study B7981031 will receive either higher or lower dose of ritlecitinib in this trial. The study medicine is a capsule that is taken by mouth. It is taken 1 time each day at home. The study will help see if ritlecitinib is safe and effective. Participants will take part in this study for a duration of up to 3 years (36 months). During this time, they will have 17 study visits at the study clinic. The study team will also call participants once a month over the phone.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Participants with alopecia areata (AA) (including alopecia totalis \[AT\] and alopecia universalis \[AU\]) who completed the studies B7981027 or B7981031.
- For participants originating from Study B7981031: At least 50% scalp hair loss due to AA (ie, a SALT score of ≥50) at both the Screening and Baseline visits.
Exclusion criteria
- During Study B7981027 or in the period between the last dose of study intervention in Study B7981027 and the first dose of study intervention of Study B7981028, presence of safety events that would require permanent discontinuation based on the B7981028 protocol.
- Study participants discontinued from Study B7981027 due to issues other than safety-related events and considered by the investigator for enrolment in Study B7981028 must have resolution of the issue(s) resulting in discontinuation from the parent study prior to enrolment in Study B7981028.
- During Study B7981031 or Study B7981027 or in the period between the last dose of study intervention in Study B7981031 or Study B7981027 and the first dose of study intervention of Study B7981028, presence of safety events that would require permanent discontinuation based on the B7981028 protocol.
- Any present malignancies or history of malignancies or lymphoproliferative disorders.
- Evidence of untreated or inadequately treated active or latent Mycobacterium tuberculosis (TB) infection, history (one or more episodes) of severe or serious cytomegalovirus (CMV), herpes zoster (shingles) or disseminated herpes simplex, infection with hepatitis B virus (HBV) or hepatitis C virus (HCV). \-
Where
- Encinitas, California
- Miami, Florida
- Tamarac, Florida
- Indianapolis, Indiana
- Marriottsville, Maryland
- Waterford, Michigan
- Omaha, Nebraska
- Papillion, Nebraska
- Albuquerque, New Mexico
- The Bronx, New York
- Portland, Oregon
- Hershey, Pennsylvania
And 3 more locations — see the full list below.
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Apr 28, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations