Baricitinib
Baricitinib is a Janus kinase inhibitor that reduces immune signalling. It may help selected inflammatory conditions but can increase serious infection, blood-clot and cardiovascular risks. Listed uses include rheumatoid arthritis, atopic dermatitis and alopecia areata.
Key points
- Baricitinib is selected after weighing disease severity against infection, clot, cancer and cardiovascular risk.
- Tuberculosis, hepatitis, vaccination status and blood counts require review before and during treatment.
- Chest pain, sudden breathlessness, one-sided leg swelling or severe infection symptoms needs urgent care.
Listings are for comparison only. Suitability and supply depend on clinician and pharmacy checks, stock, destination rules and prescription requirements.
How it works
Baricitinib blocks JAK1 and JAK2 enzymes, reducing cytokine signals involved in inflammation and immune activity.
Important safety checks
Active or recurrent infection, tuberculosis or hepatitis exposure, previous clots, cardiovascular risk, cancer history, pregnancy and kidney or liver function require review. Blood counts and lipids may be monitored. Live vaccines and other strong immunosuppressants should not be used without specialist advice.
When to seek urgent care
Seek urgent help for chest pain, sudden breathlessness, coughing blood, one-sided leg pain or swelling, stroke signs, fever with severe illness, a painful blistering rash or a serious allergic reaction.
Further reading
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