Indications
- Rinvoq is indicated for the treatment of moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis in adults who have had an inadequate response or intolerance to methotrexate.
- It is prescribed to help reduce signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, including joint pain, swelling, and stiffness.
- Rinvoq may be used alone or in combination with other disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) or biologic therapies for the management of rheumatoid arthritis.
Dosage and administration
- The recommended dosage of Rinvoq for adults with rheumatoid arthritis is 15 mg orally once daily.
- Rinvoq can be taken with or without food.
- Dosage adjustments are not required based on age, gender, race, ethnicity, renal impairment, or mild to moderate hepatic impairment.
- Rinvoq should be swallowed whole with water and not crushed, split, or chewed.
- If a dose of Rinvoq is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered on the same day. If the missed dose is not remembered until the next day, the missed dose should be skipped, and the next dose should be taken at the regular time.
- Rinvoq should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat, and out of reach of children.
- Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
Side effects
- Common side effects of Rinvoq may include upper respiratory tract infections, such as the common cold or sinusitis.
- Some individuals may experience nausea, cough, or fever as side effects of Rinvoq.
- Rinvoq may increase the risk of serious infections, including tuberculosis, bacterial, fungal, and viral infections.
- Other potential side effects include diarrhea, headache, and hypertension.
- Rinvoq may cause changes in certain laboratory test results, such as liver function tests or lipid levels.
- Serious side effects of Rinvoq may include allergic reactions, gastrointestinal perforations, or liver injury.
- Report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider, especially signs of infection or allergic reactions.
- Seek medical attention if you experience symptoms of a serious infection, such as fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath, or persistent diarrhea.
Precautions
- Inform your healthcare provider about any history of infections, including tuberculosis, before starting Rinvoq.
- Discuss with your healthcare provider if you have a history of gastrointestinal perforation, diverticulitis, or other gastrointestinal disorders before initiating Rinvoq therapy.
- Use caution when considering Rinvoq therapy if you have a history of liver disease or elevated liver enzymes.
- Prior to starting Rinvoq, inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of hypersensitivity reactions to any medications.
- It’s important to discuss the risks and benefits of Rinvoq if you have a history of malignancy or recurrent infections.
- Be vigilant for signs of infection while taking Rinvoq and promptly report any symptoms, such as fever, chills, or cough, to your healthcare provider.
- If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks and benefits of Rinvoq with your healthcare provider.
- Regular monitoring of laboratory parameters, including complete blood counts, liver function tests, and lipid levels, may be recommended during Rinvoq therapy.