Rinvoq

The active ingredient in Rinvoq is upadacitinib. Rinvoq works by blocking the Janus kinase (JAK) enzymes, which lowers the immune system's activity and aids in reducing inflammation.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, Safety Information, and Medication Guide before using Rinvoq. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Rinvoq:

• Take Rinvoq as directed by your doctor. Rinvoq liquid solution is not equivalent to the Rinvoq tablets therefore do not switch between them unless directed by your healthcare provider.
• In terms of the Rinvoq tablets, take them orally once daily, with or without food.
• You may need routine blood tests before and while taking Rinvoq.

The most common side effects of Rinvoq seen in clinical trials as compared to placebo include:

• Upper respiratory tract infections.
• Acne or a rash.
• Elevated liver enzyme levels.
• Stomach pain.
• Cough.
• Fever.
• Weight gain.
• Abnormal blood tests.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Rinvoq. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Severe allergic reactions.
• Low white blood cell counts and serious infections - fever, chills, body aches, cough, weight loss, or shortness of breath.
• Low red blood cells (anemia) - tiredness, feeling light-headed, cold hands and feet.
• Increased risk of blood clots and major cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke.
• Increased risk of cancer, including lymphoma and skin cancer.
• Stomach and gut tears.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Rinvoq. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Rinvoq, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• Weak immune system or HIV.
• An active or chronic infection.
• Tuberculosis.
• Herpes zoster (shingles).
• Any type of cancer.
• Diverticulitis (unexplained stomach pain).
• Heart problems, heart attack, stroke, or blood clot, or have a risk factor for heart disease.
• High cholesterol.
• Chronic lung disease.
• Eye problems.
• Diabetes.
• Low red or white blood cell counts.
• Recently received or prepared to receive any vaccine.
• Current or past smoker.
• Liver disease (hepatitis B or C).
• Kidney disease.
• Neutropenia.
• Pregnant.
• Breastfeeding.

Boxed Warning

• Use of this medication increases the risk of developing a lymphoma, decreases the body’s ability to fight infection, and increases the risk of developing a serious infection.
• Monitoring for signs of an infection during and after treatment will be necessary.

• Avoid grapefruit while taking this medication since it may raise the risk of side effects.
• Rinvoq works as an immunosuppressant and can decrease the activity of the immune system, increasing the risks of serious infections.
• Gastrointestinal perforations have been reported in clinical trials with Rinvoq and those at higher risk include patients also taking NSAIDs, corticosteroids, or with a history of diverticulitis.
• Using Rinvoq increases the risk of developing certain cancers, such as lymphoma, lung cancer, or skin cancer (avoiding sunlight and using sunscreen is vital).
• Avoid receiving any live vaccines since serious infections could develop.

Rinvoq can begin working and improving symptoms as quickly as one week.

When Rinvoq is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Medications for fungal or bacterial infections.
• Rifampicin or phenytoin.
• Medications affecting the immune system.
• Other JAK inhibitors.
• Biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) such as methotrexate.
• Potent immunosuppressants (azathioprine, cyclosporine).

Rinvoq comes in two main forms, including:

• 15 mg, 30 mg, and 45 mg extended-release tablets.
• 1 mg/mL Rinvoq LQ liquid oral solution.

Keep out of reach of children and store this medication at room temperature, away from heat and moisture.

AbbVie Inc. is the pharmaceutical company that manufactures Rinvoq.

There are no lower-cost generics available since Rinvoq only comes as a brand-name medication.

If any serious side effects begin, stop taking Rinvoq and consult your doctor immediately.

Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant since Rinvoq has the potential to harm an unborn baby. You should use effective birth control while using Rinvoq and for at least 4 weeks after your last dose.

Because of the potential for serious side effects in your breastfed infant, breastfeeding is not recommended while taking Rinvoq, and for 6 days after your last dose. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed.