What are the possible side effects of baricitinib when used to treat rheumatoid arthritis?

Baricitinib is a small molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitor mainly used to treat adult patients with moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis who are refractory to or intolerant to one or more antirheumatic drugs. Although it is excellent at controlling the condition and relieving symptoms, its use can come with a range of side effects.

Using baricitinib may increase the risk of infections, such as upper respiratory tract infection, pneumonia, urinary tract infection, etc. According to statistics, about 10% of patients developed infection symptoms while using this drug. Although less common, baricitinib may also cause serious infections, such as tuberculosis infection and invasive fungal infection.

Gastrointestinal reactions include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, indigestion, etc. The incidence of these side effects is approximately 5%-10%. If the symptoms are severe, you should seek medical treatment in time and use corresponding drugs for relief under the guidance of a doctor.

Hematological abnormalities such as thrombocytopenia, neutropenia, lymphopenia, and thrombocytopenia. According to statistics, about 3%-5% of patients experience a decline in these blood indicators. During the treatment process, blood routine should be monitored regularly to detect and deal with blood system abnormalities in a timely manner.

Use of baricitinib may result in increased levels of liver enzymes, such as abnormal increases in alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase. Research data shows that approximately 1%-2% of patients have significantly elevated liver enzyme levels. Once abnormal liver function occurs, you should seek medical treatment promptly and adjust the treatment plan under the guidance of a doctor.

Skin reactions include rash, itching, acne, etc. Statistics show that approximately 3%-7% of patients will experience these skin reactions.

Nervous system reactions such as migraine, hypoesthesia, dizziness, insomnia, emotional instability, etc.

Cardiovascular system reactions such as hypertension, heart palpitations, etc. Particularly when baricitinib is used in combination with other stimulant drugs, the risk of cardiovascular adverse effects may be increased.

The use of baricitinib may result in changes in blood lipid levels, particularly increases in low-density lipoprotein and total cholesterol levels. According to statistics, about 20%-30% of patients have increased blood lipid levels.

A small number of patients may experience side effects such as myasthenia, leukopenia, anemia, peripheral neuropathy, and thrombocytopenic purpura.

References:

https://www.drugs.com/sfx/baricitinib-side-effects.html