Key takeaways
Baricitinib (Olumiant) and upadacitinib (Rinvoq) are both Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors used to treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, they have different FDA-approved uses and dosing. Baricitinib is also approved for severe hair loss (alopecia areata) and COVID-19 in hospitalized adults needing breathing support, while upadacitinib is used for conditions like ulcerative colitis, eczema, and Crohn's disease, among others. Baricitinib is taken as a 2 mg or 4 mg tablet once daily, depending on the condition, while upadacitinib is typically taken as a 15 mg tablet once daily, with some conditions requiring a higher dose. Upadacitinib is available in both tablet and liquid forms, unlike baricitinib, which is only available as a tablet. Both medications can increase the risk of infections and have potential drug interactions. You should avoid grapefruit juice with upadacitinib due to a potential interaction. Both medications require careful monitoring.
