Rinvoq (Upadacitinib)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Rinvoq Used For?
Rinvoq is a medication that helps manage various inflammatory conditions by targeting specific pathways in the immune system.
Primary Uses
Rinvoq is used to treat moderate to severe active rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis, atopic dermatitis, ulcerative colitis, and Crohn's disease.
How It Works
Rinvoq blocks JAK enzymes that signal inflammation in the immune system, reducing inflammation and the production of immune cells.
Good to know: Rinvoq is not considered addictive.
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How to Take Rinvoq
Rinvoq should be taken as directed by your healthcare provider, ensuring you follow the prescribed dosage.
Dosage Instructions
For rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis, or ankylosing spondylitis, take one 15 mg tablet daily. For atopic dermatitis, take either 15 mg or 30 mg daily as prescribed. For ulcerative colitis, start with one 45 mg tablet daily for 8 weeks, then switch to 15 mg or 30 mg daily. For Crohn's disease, take one 45 mg tablet daily for 12 weeks, then switch to 15 mg or 30 mg daily.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, provided it's at least 10 hours before your next scheduled dose. If it's too close to the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double up on doses.
Important: Never take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- Sore throat
- Blocked or runny nose
- Feeling sick
- Abdominal pain
- Fever
- Weight gain
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Skin issues like acne or hives
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Signs of serious infection (fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath)
- Signs of blood disorders (swelling of glands, skin rash)
- Signs of gastrointestinal perforation (sudden stomach pain, fever)
- Signs of allergic reactions (difficulty breathing, swelling)
- Signs of tuberculosis (persistent cough, weight loss)
- Signs of blood clots (leg pain, chest pain, shortness of breath)
- Signs of heart attack (chest pain, nausea)
- Signs of stroke (numbness, difficulty speaking)
Impulse Control Issues
Patients should be aware of potential impulse control issues, including compulsive behaviors.
Important Warnings
There are several important considerations to keep in mind before taking Rinvoq.
Who Should Not Take Rinvoq
Do not take Rinvoq if you are allergic to upadacitinib or any of its ingredients, are currently using biological medicines, or are on medications that strongly suppress the immune system.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss with your doctor if you have a history of infections, tuberculosis, cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or if you are a long-time smoker.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Rinvoq should not be used during pregnancy as it may harm the unborn baby. Effective contraception is advised while taking Rinvoq and for at least 4 weeks after the last dose. It is also not recommended while breastfeeding.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Elderly patients may be at increased risk for infections and other serious conditions.
Drug Interactions
Rinvoq may interact with other medications, affecting how they work.
Grapefruit interaction: Avoid grapefruit products as they may increase the risk of side effects.
- Biological medicines (e.g., etanercept, adalimumab)
- Medications for fungal infections (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole)
- Antibiotics (e.g., clarithromycin)
- Medications for tuberculosis (e.g., rifampicin)
- Neurological medications (e.g., phenytoin)
- Other JAK inhibitors (e.g., tofacitinib, baricitinib)
- Immunosuppressive medications (e.g., azathioprine, ciclosporin, tacrolimus)
Alcohol & Driving
Precautions regarding alcohol consumption and driving while on Rinvoq.
Alcohol
There is no specific information on the effects of alcohol while taking Rinvoq.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Avoid driving or operating machinery if you experience dizziness or vertigo while taking Rinvoq.
Storage
Store Rinvoq in a cool, dry place below 30°C, away from moisture and sunlight. Keep it in its original packaging until it's time to take it.
Overdose Information
In case of an overdose, contact the Poisons Information Centre or your doctor immediately, even if no symptoms are present.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rinvoq may take several weeks to show its full effect.
You can take Rinvoq with or without food.
No, Rinvoq is not considered addictive.
Do not stop taking Rinvoq without consulting your doctor.
There is no specific information on alcohol interactions, but it's best to consult your doctor.
Weight gain is a possible side effect; monitor your weight regularly.
Elderly patients may be at increased risk for infections and should be monitored closely.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it's close to the next dose.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.