Janus kinase inhibitor list: what to know

JAK inhibitors are prescription medicines that interrupt selected messages used by immune cells. Dermatology teams may consider them for conditions such as alopecia areata or atopic dermatitis. Names can include baricitinib and ritlecitinib, but the appropriate option depends on the condition, age, other medicines and health history.

These medicines are not interchangeable simply because they share a drug class. A clinician may review infection history, vaccinations, blood results, pregnancy plans and conditions affecting the heart, blood vessels or liver before treatment.

Bring the exact medicine name and dose to an appointment, including products prescribed by another clinician. Ask what improvement will be assessed, when follow-up tests are needed, and what to do after a missed dose. Do not start, stop or share a JAK inhibitor based on a list found online.

Read the treatment instructions carefully and tell the prescriber about fever, a new infection, recent vaccination or a planned procedure. A different treatment, such as dupilumab for some inflammatory skin disease, may suit a particular person.

Contact the prescribing team promptly for fever, persistent cough, painful urination, unusual bruising, severe abdominal pain or a new widespread rash. Seek urgent help for trouble breathing, swelling of the face or lips, sudden weakness, chest pain or severe headache.

Which JAK inhibitor fits my diagnosis, and what benefit are we trying to measure? Which blood tests or infection checks do I need before and during treatment? Which symptoms mean I should pause the medicine and call?