Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Upadacitinib belongs to the class of medications known as Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, and is prescribed either as a standalone treatment or in combination with other medications to manage rheumatoid arthritis in individuals who have not responded well to, or are unable to take one or more tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitor medication(s).
Upadacitinib is also used to alleviate symptoms associated with psoriatic arthritis, eczema, ulcerative colitis, and ankylosing spondylitis in both adults and children. By decreasing the activity of the immune system, Upadacitinib aids in treating the aforementioned conditions.
Uses and Dosage
Follow your doctor’s instructions and take this medication orally, either with or without food, usually once daily. Refrain from crushing, chewing, or splitting the tablets, as it can cause the drug to be released all at once, which may heighten the risk of side effects.
To derive the maximum benefit from this medication, use it on a regular basis. Take it at the same time every day to help you remember.
The dosage is determined based on your medical condition, age, response to treatment, and other medications you may be taking.
Do not increase your dosage or use this medication more frequently or for a longer duration than prescribed. Doing so will not hasten the healing process, but instead, may increase your risk of side effects.
Notify your doctor if your condition does not improve or worsens.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- stuffy or runny nose
- nausea
- acne
- headache
- increased weight
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- hives
- swelling of face, eyes, lips, or throat
- difficulty swallowing or breathing
- stomach pain, especially if it comes along with fever, chills, nausea, and vomiting
- shortness of breath
- tiredness
- pale skin
Caution
Before taking upadacitinib, notify your pharmacist or doctor if you are allergic to it or if you have any other allergies. The product may contain inactive ingredients that could cause allergic reactions or other complications.
Inform your doctor or pharmacist of your medical history, particularly if you have a history of blood clots, blood or bone marrow disorders, cancer, heart disease, liver disease, past, recent, or present infections (such as tuberculosis, herpes zoster, HIV infection), current or past smoking, stomach or intestinal problems, stroke, or kidney disease.
Upadacitinib increases your likelihood of contracting infections or worsening any current infections. Refrain from interacting with individuals who have infections that can be transmitted to others, such as chickenpox, measles, or the flu. For further details or if you have been exposed to an infection, consult your doctor.
Inform your healthcare provider that you are using upadacitinib before receiving any immunizations or vaccinations. Avoid contact with individuals who have recently received live vaccines, such as the flu vaccine inhaled through the nose.
While taking this medication, older adults may have a higher risk of experiencing side effects.
If you are pregnant or intend to become pregnant, inform your doctor. You should avoid becoming pregnant while taking upadacitinib since it may harm an unborn baby. Before beginning this medication, your doctor should perform a pregnancy test. Inquire about reliable forms of birth control while taking this medication and for four weeks after the last dose. If you become pregnant, talk to your doctor right away about the risks and benefits of this medication.
It is unclear if this medication passes into breast milk. Since there is a potential risk to the infant, do not breast-feed while taking this drug and for six days after the last dose.
Form and Strength
Rinvoq is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
Rinvoq tablet:
- 15mg
- 30mg
FAQ
How long does it take for Rinvoq to work?
It can take about 2 to 8 weeks before patients start feeling better, and it can take 3 to 6 months to feel the maximum effect of this medication.
What is the success rate of Rinvoq?
Of the people taking Rinvoq: 64% to 76% had their symptoms and physical function improve.
