Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Infliximab (Remicade) and upadacitinib (Rinvoq) are both medications used to treat autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and ulcerative colitis (UC). However, they belong to different medication classes. Infliximab is a biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) that works by blocking tumor necrosis factor (TNF) to reduce inflammation. It is administered as an intravenous (IV) infusion by a healthcare professional. Upadacitinib, on the other hand, is a Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor taken orally, either as a tablet or liquid. It blocks the JAK enzyme to lower inflammation. Infliximab is also used for conditions like Crohn's disease and severe plaque psoriasis, while upadacitinib is used for eczema and non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis, among others. Both medications are only available as brand-name products, but Remicade has biosimilars like Avsola, Inflectra, and Renflexis available. Common side effects of infliximab include infections and infusion-related reactions, while upadacitinib can cause acne and upper respiratory tract infections. Both medications can increase the risk of serious infections, but infliximab also has a risk of heart problems and liver issues, while upadacitinib may cause blood clots and stomach tears.
Remicade (infliximab)
Rinvoq (upadacitinib)
Remicade (infliximab)
Rinvoq (upadacitinib)
Summary of Remicade vs. Rinvoq
Summary for Biologic DMARD
Prescription only
Remicade (infliximab) is an injectable medication used to treat many autoimmune conditions, including ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. It's given through an intravenous (IV) infusion by a healthcare provider.
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.
Indications of Remicade vs. Rinvoq
Indications for
•Moderate-to-severe Crohn's disease (CD)
•Moderate-to-severe ulcerative colitis (UC)
•Moderate-to-severe rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
•Ankylosing spondylitis (AS)
•Psoriatic arthritis (PsA)
•Severe plaque psoriasis (PsO)
Indications for
Moderate-to-severe inflammatory conditions in which other treatments haven't worked: