Indications 

Upadacitinib, sold under the brand name Rinvoq, is an orally administered medication prescribed for the treatment of moderate to severe active rheumatoid arthritis in patients who have demonstrated inadequate response to methotrexate or experienced intolerance to it. Rinvoq acts to reduce swelling, tenderness, and pain in the joints. 

Uses and Dosage 

Prior to commencing treatment with upadacitinib, thoroughly review the Medication Guide and Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist, if available. In the event that any questions arise, kindly consult your doctor or pharmacist for clarification. 

To administer this medication, take it orally, once daily, as directed by your physician. It may be taken with or without food. Refrain from crushing, chewing, or splitting the tablets as this can result in the rapid release of the entire drug, thereby increasing the probability of encountering adverse effects. 

For optimal results, use this medication regularly. To facilitate recollection, take the medication at the same time every day. 

The dosage of upadacitinib is contingent on various factors, such as your medical condition, response to treatment, age, and other medications that may be in use. Notify your doctor and pharmacist of all products, including prescription and nonprescription drugs, as well as herbal supplements, that you are taking. 

Avoid increasing your dose or utilizing this drug more frequently or for longer than prescribed. Such actions will not hasten the healing process, but rather increase the possibility of experiencing side effects. 

Side Effects 

Allergic Reactions 

• Hives 
• Difficulty breathing 
• Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat 

Serious Side Effects  

• Heart attack 
• Stroke 
• Serious blood clots 

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek emergency medical attention immediately: 

• Sudden shortness of breath 
• Chest pain or pressure that may spread to your jaw, shoulder, arms, or back 
• Nausea, vomiting, cold sweat 
• A light-headed feeling, like you might pass out 
• Weakness on one side of your body 
• Slurred speech, drooping on one side of your mouth 
• Pain, swelling, or redness in an arm or a leg 

Call your doctor right away if you experience: 

• Fever, chills, night sweats, constant tiredness 
• Wheezing, trouble breathing, severe or worsening cough 
• Increased urination, pain or burning when you urinate 
• Unexplained weight loss 
• Lumps in your neck, armpits, or groin 
• Signs of shingles – flu-like symptoms, tingly or painful blistering rash on one side of your body 
• A hole (perforation) in your digestive tract – fever, severe stomach pain, diarrhea or changes in bowel habits 
• Signs of hepatitis – loss of appetite, vomiting, stomach pain (upper right side), dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) 

Common Side Effects  

• Fever 
• Cough 
• Nausea 
• Cold symptoms such as stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat 

Caution 

Before initiating the administration of this prescription drug, disclose your comprehensive medical history to your physician. This must encompass any past episodes of blood or bone marrow disease, liver disease, cancer, gastrointestinal issues, and infections, as these may impact your body’s response to this medication.  

Provide a complete list of all prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking to avoid possible drug interactions with this JAK inhibitor. 

While undergoing this treatment, remain vigilant for any allergic reactions. Refrain from taking this medication if you have a known allergy to upadacitinib or any of its inactive ingredients. Seek immediate medical assistance if you experience symptoms of a hypersensitivity reaction, such as skin rashes, swelling of the face, hives, severe dizziness, or breathing difficulties. 

This medication increases your susceptibility to infections and exacerbates existing infections. Practice good personal hygiene and avoid contact with individuals with infections or recent vaccination. Avoid receiving live vaccines. 

Pregnant and breastfeeding women must abstain from taking this medication due to the potential risks to the fetus or infant. Only take this oral medication if absolutely necessary.