Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Vedolizumab (Entyvio) and upadacitinib (Rinvoq) are both Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDs) used to treat ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD), but there are some important differences. Vedolizumab is an integrin antagonist, while upadacitinib is a Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor. Vedolizumab is administered either as an intravenous infusion or a subcutaneous injection, whereas upadacitinib is taken orally as a tablet or liquid. Vedolizumab is specifically approved for moderate-to-severe UC and CD in adults, while upadacitinib is used for a broader range of inflammatory conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis and eczema, and is typically prescribed when other treatments haven't worked. Common side effects of vedolizumab include headache and joint pain, while upadacitinib may cause acne and nausea. Both medications can increase the risk of infections, but upadacitinib also carries risks of blood clots and potential harm during pregnancy. Both are only available as a branded medication.
Entyvio (vedolizumab)
Rinvoq (upadacitinib)
Entyvio (vedolizumab)
Rinvoq (upadacitinib)
Summary of Entyvio vs. Rinvoq
Summary for Integrin antagonist
Prescription only
Entyvio, the brand name for vedolizumab, is an injection used to treat ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD) in adults. It belongs to a drug class called integrin antagonists that helps lower inflammation in the gut. Entyvio (vedolizumab) is an infusion that's given through the vein by a healthcare professional. After the first 2 doses, it's usually given every 2 months. If it works well, people can switch to injections under the skin every 2 weeks using prefilled syringes or pens. Side effects include headache, mild infections, and joint pain.
Summary for JAK inhibitor
Prescription only
Rinvoq (upadacitinib) is a Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor. It's used to treat certain inflammatory conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), ulcerative colitis (UC), and eczema (atopic dermatitis). But it's not a first-choice option and typically only prescribed when other treatments haven't worked well. Rinvoq (upadacitinib) is taken by mouth, usually once daily. It's available as an extended-release tablet (Rinvoq) and an oral solution (Rinvoq LQ), but the two formulations aren't interchangeable. Side effects include a higher risk of infections, acne, and nausea.