WARNING

Taking upadacitinib, like any medication, comes with potential risks and side effects. It’s important to be aware of these risks and discuss them with your healthcare provider before starting the medication. Always consult with your healthcare provider for the most current and personalized information. Here is a brief overview of the risks associated with upadacitinib:

• Infections: Upadacitinib may increase the risk of serious infections. It’s important to promptly report any signs of infection to your healthcare provider.
• Gastrointestinal Perforations: There is a risk of gastrointestinal perforations, particularly in individuals with a history of diverticulitis.
• Liver Enzyme Elevations: Upadacitinib may lead to increased liver enzyme levels. Regular monitoring of liver function is recommended.
• Hematologic Abnormalities: Changes in blood cell counts, including decreases in neutrophils, hemoglobin, and platelets, have been observed.
• Lipid Elevations: Increases in lipid levels, including cholesterol and triglycerides, may occur.
• Serious Allergic Reactions: Serious allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, have been reported in some cases.
• Malignancies: There may be an increased risk of certain cancers, although the evidence is not definitive.
• Gastrointestinal Disorders: Common gastrointestinal side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
• Headache: Headache is a common side effect reported by some individuals taking upadacitinib.
• Hypertension: Upadacitinib may lead to elevated blood pressure.
• Increased Risk of Blood Clots: There may be an increased risk of blood clots, including deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism.

It’s crucial to weigh the potential benefits of upadacitinib in managing the specific condition it’s prescribed for, such as rheumatoid arthritis, against the potential risks. Your healthcare provider will consider your individual health profile and discuss these factors with you to make informed decisions about your treatment plan. Regular monitoring and open communication with your healthcare team are key components of safe and effective medication management.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Upadacitinib is a medication used to treat certain inflammatory conditions, specifically rheumatoid arthritis. It belongs to a class of drugs known as Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors. Upadacitinib works by inhibiting the activity of specific enzymes involved in the inflammatory process.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the joints, leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness. By inhibiting JAK enzymes, upadacitinib helps to modulate the immune response and reduce inflammation, providing relief for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis.

How should this medicine be used?

Upadacitinib is typically taken orally, and the recommended dosage may depend on the specific condition being treated. Commonly, it is prescribed once daily. It can be taken with or without food.

Here are some general guidelines:

• Dosage: The usual starting dose for upadacitinib is often determined by the treating healthcare provider based on the patient’s medical history and the severity of the condition being treated.
• Regular Monitoring: Healthcare providers may monitor the patient regularly to assess the response to treatment and to check for any potential side effects.
• Adherence to Instructions: It is crucial to take upadacitinib exactly as prescribed by the healthcare provider. Do not adjust the dosage or stop taking the medication without consulting your healthcare professional.
• Compliance with Follow-up Appointments: Regular follow-up appointments with the healthcare provider are important to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment and to address any concerns or side effects.
• Combination with Other Medications: Upadacitinib may be prescribed alone or in combination with other medications, depending on the specific needs of the patient.
• Special Considerations: Certain patient populations, such as those with liver impairment, may require dosage adjustments or additional monitoring.

It’s crucial to emphasize that the information provided here is based on general knowledge, and there may have been updates or changes in prescribing guidelines. Always follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider, and consult them for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the use of upadacitinib.

Other uses for this medicine

Upadacitinib is primarily indicated for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. It is essential to note that medications may be prescribed “off-label” for conditions not specifically approved by regulatory agencies. However, the off-label use of medications should only occur under the guidance and supervision of a qualified healthcare professional.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions and considerations for upadacitinib use include:

• Infections: JAK inhibitors, including upadacitinib, can increase the risk of serious infections. Patients should be monitored for signs of infection, and it may be necessary to temporarily discontinue treatment in the presence of a serious infection.
• Tuberculosis (TB): Prior to starting upadacitinib, patients should be screened for tuberculosis. Treatment for latent TB may be necessary before initiating upadacitinib.
• Vaccinations: Patients are generally advised to complete all recommended vaccinations before starting upadacitinib. Live vaccines should be avoided during treatment.
• Gastrointestinal Perforations: Upadacitinib may increase the risk of gastrointestinal perforations. Caution is advised in patients with a history of diverticulitis.
• Hepatotoxicity: Liver enzyme elevations have been reported with upadacitinib. Liver function should be monitored, and dose adjustments may be necessary in patients with hepatic impairment.
• Blood Cell Counts: Monitoring of blood cell counts, including neutrophils, hemoglobin, and platelets, is recommended.
• Lipid Elevations: Upadacitinib may lead to increases in lipid levels. Lipid levels should be monitored, and management of lipid disorders may be necessary.
• Malignancies: Like many immunosuppressive medications, upadacitinib may be associated with an increased risk of certain cancers.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of upadacitinib during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well-established. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should discuss the potential risks and benefits with their healthcare provider.

It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and information tailored to your specific health condition. Additionally, there may have been updates or changes in the prescribing information. Always refer to the most recent medical literature or consult with a healthcare provider for the latest information.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

As of last update, there were no specific dietary instructions associated with upadacitinib. However, dietary advice may be given by your healthcare provider based on your overall health and specific medical conditions.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of upadacitinib, follow these general guidelines:

• Take It as Soon as Possible: If you remember within a few hours of the scheduled time, take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
• Skip If It’s Almost Time for the Next Dose: If it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule.
• Do Not Double Dose: Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Upadacitinib, like any medication, can cause side effects. It’s important to note that the severity and occurrence of side effects can vary among individuals. Common side effects and potential adverse reactions associated with upadacitinib include:

• Infections: Upadacitinib may increase the risk of infections, including serious and potentially fatal infections. Common infections include upper respiratory tract infections and urinary tract infections.
• Gastrointestinal Perforations: There is a risk of gastrointestinal perforations, particularly in individuals with a history of diverticulitis.
• Liver Enzyme Elevations: Upadacitinib may lead to increased liver enzyme levels. Regular monitoring of liver function is recommended.
• Hematologic Abnormalities: Changes in blood cell counts, including decreases in neutrophils, hemoglobin, and platelets, have been observed.
• Lipid Elevations: Increases in lipid levels, including cholesterol and triglycerides, may occur.
• Serious Allergic Reactions: Serious allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, have been reported in some cases.
• Malignancies: There may be an increased risk of certain cancers, although the evidence is not definitive.
• Gastrointestinal Disorders: Common gastrointestinal side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
• Headache: Headache is a common side effect reported by some individuals taking upadacitinib.
• Hypertension: Upadacitinib may lead to elevated blood pressure.
• Increased Risk of Blood Clots: There may be an increased risk of blood clots, including deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism.

It’s crucial to report any unusual or severe side effects to your healthcare provider promptly. Additionally, patients taking upadacitinib should undergo regular monitoring, including laboratory tests to assess liver function, blood cell counts, and lipid levels.

This list is not exhaustive, and individual responses to medication can vary. Always consult with your healthcare provider for a comprehensive understanding of potential side effects, and inform them of any pre-existing health conditions or medications you are taking. This information is based on knowledge, and there may have been updates or changes in prescribing information since then.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage:

• Room Temperature: Upadacitinib is typically stored at room temperature.
• Keep in Original Container: Store the medication in its original container, tightly closed, and away from moisture.
• Protect from Light: Some medications are sensitive to light, so check if there are specific instructions regarding exposure to light.

Disposal:

• Follow Local Regulations: Dispose of upadacitinib according to local regulations or guidelines. Do not dispose of it in household waste unless instructed to do so.
• Take-Back Programs: Check if there are medication take-back programs or facilities in your community where you can safely dispose of unused or expired medications.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of emergency or overdose, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Signs of overdose may include severe nausea, vomiting, or gastrointestinal distress. It’s important to seek medical attention promptly.

What other information should I know?

• Follow Prescribing Instructions: Take upadacitinib exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not adjust the dosage or stop taking the medication without consulting your healthcare professional.
• Regular Monitoring: Your healthcare provider may conduct regular monitoring, including blood tests, to assess the response to treatment and monitor for any potential side effects.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care, including dentists and surgeons, about your use of upadacitinib. They should be aware of all the medications you are taking.
• Avoid Certain Vaccines: Live vaccines should be avoided while taking upadacitinib. Consult your healthcare provider about vaccinations.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss this with your healthcare provider. The safety of upadacitinib during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well-established.
• Keep Appointments: Attend all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider for follow-up assessments and monitoring.

Always consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for the most up-to-date and personalized information. This information is based on knowledge, and there may have been updates or changes since then.