What are the side effects of Baricitinib?

Baricitinib (Baricitinib) is a Janus kinase inhibitor (JAK inhibitor), used to treat rheumatic diseases. Autoimmune diseases such as arthritis (RA), rheumatoid arthritis (PsA), and psoriatic arthritis (PsA). Although baricitinib shows good efficacy in these diseases, it may also cause some side effects. Below is a detailed discussion of common and serious side effects of baricitinib.

Common side effects (affecting more than 10% of patients):

1.Infection: During the use of baricitinib, patients may be more susceptible to infections, including upper respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, and respiratory tract infections. Symptoms of infection may include fever, sore throat, cough and runny nose. If patients develop symptoms of infection while taking baricitinib, they should inform their doctor immediately.

2.Skin problems: Some patients may experience skin reactions such as rash, itching, and dryness after taking baricitinib. Sometimes skin infections may also occur. Patients should consult their doctor if they develop any skin problems during use.

3.Nausea and diarrhea: During treatment with baricitinib, some patients may experience gastrointestinal reactions such as nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort. These symptoms are usually mild, but if symptoms are severe or persist, call your doctor promptly.

4.Headache: The use of baricitinib may cause headache. Headaches are usually mild, but if they are severe or persistent, talk to your doctor.

5.Hypertension: Patients taking baricitinib may experience an increase in blood pressure. While you are using baricitinib, have your blood pressure measured regularly and talk with your doctor about managing your high blood pressure.

6.Cheilitis: Some patients may experience symptoms of cheilitis such as dry, red, swollen or cracked lips while taking baricitinib. Keeping your lips well moisturized may help relieve these symptoms.

7.Elevated liver enzymes: Elevated liver enzymes may occur during use of baricitinib. Therefore, patients should undergo regular liver function tests while taking baricitinib to ensure the safety of liver function.

Serious side effects (relatively rare, but worth paying attention to):

1.Immunosuppression and infection: As aJAK inhibitor, baricitinib may cause suppression of the immune system and increase the risk of infection. There have been reports of serious infections, possibly fatal, in patients taking baricitinib. While using baricitinib, patients need to be monitored for infections regularly and follow their doctor's recommendations to take infection prevention measures.

2.Deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism: There have been reports that patients taking baricitinib may be at increased risk of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Therefore, patients should pay special attention to symptoms related to thrombosis, such as swelling, pain, difficulty breathing, etc. during use, and seek medical treatment in time.

3.Cardiovascular events: In some clinical trials, patients taking baricitinib may be at increased risk of cardiovascular events, such as myocardial infarction, stroke, and cardiovascular death. Patients should regularly monitor heart health indicators during use and follow their doctor's recommendations.

4.Thyroid dysfunction: During the use of baricitinib, some patients may develop thyroid dysfunction, including hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. Patients should monitor thyroid function regularly and inform their doctor of any abnormal symptoms.

It should be emphasized that these side effects may not occur in every patient, and serious side effects are relatively rare. However, patients should pay close attention to any discomfort or side effects while using baricitinib and communicate with their doctor in a timely manner. Before starting baricitinib, physicians will assess patients for potential risks and provide appropriate monitoring and guidance to ensure optimal treatment effectiveness and safety.

Baricitinib has been launched in China and is included in medical insurance. Patients can purchase it domestically. Due to different medical insurance reimbursement policies in different regions, the reimbursement ratio is also different. The price is about 1200~1600 yuan. For specific prices, please consult the local pharmacy or the medical insurance bureau. Baricitinib has both original and generic drugs abroad. The original drug is mainly Eli Lilly’s original drug, and its price is higher than in China. Generic drugs are mainly Bangladeshi generic drugs, the price is 450Yuan or so. The ingredients of original drugs and generic drugs are basically the same.