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.
