You are checked for tuberculosis and shingles risk before starting, and your cholesterol and blood counts are monitored while you take it.
Upadacitinib belongs to a class of medications called JAK inhibitors. It works by blocking specific enzymes (Janus kinases) inside immune cells that drive the inflammation behind joint and muscle disease. It is a small once-daily tablet taken by mouth, rather than an injection, and at the Centre it may be used in inflammatory arthritis and in selected autoimmune muscle disease where other treatments have not been enough.
In trials, significant reductions in tender and swollen joints, with many reaching low disease activity.
Marked improvement in the duration and severity of morning stiffness.
Shown to slow the progression of joint damage on X-ray.
No needles, no refrigeration, and no injection-site reactions.
Better ability to dress, cook, walk, grip, and climb stairs.
Some people notice improvement within the first 1 to 2 weeks.
Your doctor prescribed this because the expected benefits outweigh the risks for your situation. Here is the honest, full picture.
Upadacitinib may harm an unborn baby. Do not take it if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, and use effective contraception while on it. Do not breastfeed while taking it. Talk with your doctor before planning a family.
This guide is for education, not medical advice. Myositis treatment is individual, and many of these medications are used based on specialist experience and research rather than a single approval for myositis. Never start, stop, or change a medication without your own doctor. Your doses and choices are decided with your care team at the Centre.