What is the biggest disadvantage of Upatinib/Refu? Patients need to be cautious

Upadacitinib is a selective JAK1 inhibitor that is widely used in the treatment of immune-mediated inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), atopic dermatitis (AD), and psoriatic arthritis (PA). Although it has significant clinical efficacy, it also has some disadvantages and potential risks that require patients to treat with caution.

1. Immunosuppressive effect

The main mechanism of upadatinib is to inhibitJAK1 tyrosine kinase, thereby reducing the activity of certain cytokines in the immune system (such as IL-6 and IL-7). In this way, the drug can effectively reduce the inflammatory response, but suppressing the immune system can also make the patient less resistant to infection. Research shows that patients taking JAK inhibitors are more likely to develop upper respiratory tract infections, pneumonia, and other bacterial or viral infections. Therefore, patients should regularly monitor for signs of infection while taking upadacitinib and seek prompt medical attention if symptoms of infection occur.

2. Risk of blood clots

Upadatinib, like otherJAK inhibitors, has an increased risk of thrombosis. It has been observed in clinical trials that patients using upadatinib may be at risk of thrombotic events such as deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Although this does not occur in all patients, upadatinib should be used with particular caution in patients with a history of previous thrombosis or who are at high risk for thrombosis. Therefore, patients should inform their doctors if they have a history of blood clots before starting treatment and closely monitor blood indicators during treatment.

3. Increased cholesterol levels

Upadatinib may cause changes in blood lipid levels, particularly increases in low-density lipoprotein and total cholesterol. Long-term use may increase the risk of atherosclerosis, particularly in patients with pre-existing risk for cardiovascular disease. Therefore, patients taking upadacitinib should have their lipid levels checked regularly, especially during long-term use.

4. Allergic reaction

Although rare, upadacitinib may also cause allergic reactions, such as rash and difficulty breathing. When allergic symptoms occur, patients should stop taking the drug immediately and seek medical help.

Keyword tag:

Upadacitinib, Upadacitinib, JAK inhibitors, side effects, immunosuppression, infection, thrombosis, cholesterol, liver function monitoring

Reference materials:https://www.drugs.com/upadacitinib.html