About upadacitinib
Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor
Used for
- Rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis
- Atopic dermatitis and ulcerative colitis
- Crohn’s disease and non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis
Usual adult dose
Usually 15 mg once daily for inflammatory arthritis, dermatitis, or axial spondyloarthritis. Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease usually start with 45 mg daily for 8 weeks (ulcerative colitis) or 12 weeks (Crohn’s disease), then continue at a lower dose.
Usual dose in children
Atopic dermatitis: ages 12 and older, usually 15 mg once daily; some may need 30 mg. Polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis and juvenile psoriatic arthritis: ages 2 and older, weight-based once-daily dosing.
Common side effects
- Upper respiratory infections, nausea, acne, or headache
- Shingles and other serious infections
- Changes in blood counts, liver tests, or cholesterol
- Blood clots, major cardiovascular events, or cancer
Important warnings
- Can cause serious infections, including tuberculosis; screening is needed before treatment.
- Avoid live vaccines during treatment; update vaccinations beforehand when appropriate.
- Higher risks of death, heart problems, blood clots, and cancer occur in some patients.
- Do not combine with other JAK inhibitors, biologic immune medicines, or strong immunosuppressants.
Pregnancy
May cause fetal harm. Pregnancy should be avoided during treatment and for 4 weeks after the last dose.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment or for 6 days after the last dose.
Interactions
- Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors can increase upadacitinib exposure.
- Strong CYP3A4 inducers can reduce effectiveness.
- Other potent immunosuppressants or biologic medicines increase infection risk.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.