Baricitinib is used for the treatment of moderate to severe Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA) when conventional disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (csDMARDs) are not effective.
It works to reduce inflammation, thereby reducing symptoms of joint pain and swelling, and improving quality of life. Baricitinib does not work immediately and it may take weeks to months before you notice any improvement in symptoms.
Baricitinib is also used for the treatment of severe eczema and other medical conditions.
Common side effects of Baricitinib includes:
Inform your doctor if any side effect persists, if you are unable to tolerate them or if the side effects become serious.
Baricitinib may reduce your body's ability to fight against infection. You should consult a doctor immediately if you develop a fever or feel unwell. Inform the doctor whom you consult that you are taking Baricitinib as the medication may need to be stopped while you are having an infection.
You may need to have regular blood tests to monitor your blood counts and cholesterol levels when on Baricitinib.
Rare but serious effects Include:
The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following:
If you experience any of these symptoms, you should consult your healthcare professional immediately.
Avoid eating raw, undercooked or half-cooked food.
Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking other medications as they may interact with Baricitinib. These include:
Pneumococcal. influenza (flu) and Hepatitis B vaccinations are safe and may be given if required. Avoid live vaccines such as MMR (measles, mumps and rubella), OPV (oral polio vaccine), yellow fever or BCG (tuberculosis). Discuss with yovr doctor before receiving any vaccines.
Your doctor will prescribe a suitable dose for you.
You may take the medication with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole, do not crush or chew.
Do not stop taking your medication without checking with your healthcare professional.
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Then take your next dose at the usual time. Do not take two doses to make up for the missed dose.
Pack this medication into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing it into the rubbish chute or bin.