What is Upadacitinib: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects and More

Upadacitinib is a targeted medication that helps calm down your immune system when it's overactive. This prescription medicine belongs to a class called JAK inhibitors, which work by blocking specific proteins that trigger inflammation in your body.

Think of it as a precise tool that helps turn down the volume on your immune system's inflammatory response. Your doctor might prescribe upadacitinib when your body's natural defense system starts attacking healthy tissues, causing painful swelling and damage.

What is Upadacitinib Used For?

Upadacitinib treats several autoimmune conditions where your immune system mistakenly attacks your own body. The medication is primarily prescribed for rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and certain skin conditions like atopic dermatitis.

Your doctor might recommend this medication when other treatments haven't provided enough relief from your symptoms. It's particularly helpful for people with moderate to severe forms of these conditions who need stronger intervention than what topical treatments or basic medications can offer.

The medicine is also used for ankylosing spondylitis, a type of arthritis that primarily affects your spine. In some cases, doctors prescribe it for ulcerative colitis, an inflammatory bowel condition that causes ongoing inflammation in your digestive tract.

How Does Upadacitinib Work?

Upadacitinib blocks proteins called JAK enzymes that send inflammatory signals throughout your body. When these enzymes are overactive, they trigger the painful swelling and tissue damage you experience with autoimmune conditions.

By interrupting these inflammatory pathways, the medication helps reduce swelling, pain, and the progression of joint damage. It's considered a moderately strong medication that provides more targeted action than older immune-suppressing drugs.

The medicine works at the cellular level to prevent your immune cells from producing excessive amounts of inflammatory substances. This targeted approach means it can be effective while potentially causing fewer side effects than broader immune suppressants.

How Should I Take Upadacitinib?

Take upadacitinib exactly as your doctor prescribes, typically once daily with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with water and don't crush, split, or chew it, as this can affect how the medication is released in your body.

You can take it at any time of day, but try to take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels in your system. Taking it with food may help reduce stomach upset if you experience any digestive discomfort.

Your doctor will start you on a specific dose based on your condition and how you respond to treatment. They may adjust your dose over time, so it's important to follow their guidance and not change the amount on your own.

How Long Should I Take Upadacitinib For?

The duration of upadacitinib treatment varies depending on your specific condition and how well you respond to the medication. Many people with chronic autoimmune conditions take it long-term to maintain control of their symptoms.

Your doctor will regularly monitor your progress and may adjust your treatment plan based on how you're feeling and your lab results. Some people notice improvement within a few weeks, while others may need several months to experience the full benefits.

Never stop taking upadacitinib suddenly without talking to your doctor first. They may need to gradually reduce your dose or switch you to another medication to prevent your symptoms from returning.

What Are the Side Effects of Upadacitinib?

Like all medications that affect your immune system, upadacitinib can cause side effects, though not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are manageable, and your doctor will monitor you closely to catch any problems early.

Here are the more common side effects you might experience while taking this medication:

• Upper respiratory tract infections like colds or sinus infections
• Nausea or stomach discomfort
• Increased risk of infections due to immune system suppression
• Elevated liver enzymes shown in blood tests
• Headaches
• Acne or skin reactions
• Increased cholesterol levels

Most of these effects are mild and often improve as your body adjusts to the medication. Your doctor will perform regular blood tests to monitor your liver function and overall health.

There are also some serious but rare side effects that require immediate medical attention. While these don't happen often, it's important to be aware of them:

• Serious infections that could be life-threatening
• Blood clots in legs, lungs, or other parts of the body
• Significant changes in blood cell counts
• Severe liver problems
• Increased risk of certain cancers
• Cardiovascular events like heart attack or stroke

If you experience fever, persistent cough, unusual tiredness, or any signs of infection, contact your doctor right away. These rare complications are why regular monitoring is so important.

Who Should Not Take Upadacitinib?

Upadacitinib isn't suitable for everyone, and your doctor will carefully evaluate whether it's right for you. People with active serious infections should not start this medication until the infection is fully treated.

You should avoid upadacitinib if you have a known allergy to the medication or any of its ingredients. People with severe liver problems or those who have had certain types of cancer may also need to avoid this treatment.

Your doctor will be particularly cautious if you have a history of blood clots, heart problems, or stroke. People over 65, those who smoke, or individuals with risk factors for cardiovascular disease need special consideration before starting treatment.

If you're pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss these circumstances with your doctor. The effects of upadacitinib during pregnancy and breastfeeding aren't fully known, so alternative treatments may be safer.

Upadacitinib Brand Names

Upadacitinib is available under the brand name Rinvoq in most countries. This is the primary brand name you'll see on your prescription bottle and medication packaging.

The medication is manufactured by AbbVie and comes in extended-release tablets of different strengths. Your pharmacy will typically dispense the Rinvoq brand unless your doctor specifically prescribes a generic version, which may not be widely available yet.

Upadacitinib Alternatives

Several other medications work similarly to upadacitinib if this treatment isn't suitable for you. Other JAK inhibitors include tofacitinib (Xeljanz) and baricitinib (Olumiant), which block the same inflammatory pathways but may have different side effect profiles.

Biologic medications like adalimumab (Humira), etanercept (Enbrel), or infliximab (Remicade) offer different approaches to treating autoimmune conditions. These work by targeting specific proteins involved in inflammation rather than blocking JAK enzymes.

Traditional disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) like methotrexate or sulfasalazine might be options for some people. Your doctor will consider your specific condition, medical history, and treatment goals when recommending alternatives.

Is Upadacitinib Better Than Adalimumab?

Both upadacitinib and adalimumab are effective treatments for autoimmune conditions, but they work through different mechanisms. Upadacitinib is taken as a daily pill, while adalimumab requires regular injections under the skin.

Some people prefer the convenience of taking a daily pill rather than giving themselves injections. However, adalimumab has been used for many years and has a well-established safety profile that doctors are very familiar with.

The choice between these medications depends on your specific condition, how you've responded to other treatments, and your personal preferences. Your doctor will consider factors like your infection risk, cardiovascular health, and lifestyle when making this decision.