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Rinvoq vs. Actemra

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Rinvoq (upadacitinib) and Actemra (tocilizumab) are both medications used to treat inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, they belong to different medication classes. Rinvoq is a Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor, while Actemra is an interleukin-6 (IL-6) receptor antagonist. Rinvoq is taken orally, either as an extended-release tablet or an oral solution, and is typically dosed once daily. In contrast, Actemra is administered via injection, either intravenously or subcutaneously, with dosing intervals ranging from weekly to monthly. Rinvoq is available only as a brand-name medication, whereas Actemra has a biosimilar option called Tofidence. Common side effects of Rinvoq include a higher risk of infections, acne, and nausea, while Actemra can cause upper respiratory tract infections, headaches, and high blood pressure. Both medications can increase the risk of infections due to their immunosuppressive effects, but they have different interactions and precautions. For example, Rinvoq should not be taken with grapefruit, and Actemra requires careful monitoring of liver function.

Rinvoq

(upadacitinib)

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Actemra

(tocilizumab)

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Summary for Rinvoq

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 for Rinvoq

Moderate-to-severe inflammatory conditions in which other treatments haven't worked:

Pros and Cons for Rinvoq

Pros

  • Can treat many different inflammatory conditions
  • Available as a tablet and a liquid
  • The tablet only needs to be taken once a day

Cons

  • Can raise risk for infections
  • Not the best option for people with severe liver or kidney problems
  • Not safe for use during pregnancy

Common Side Effects for Rinvoq

Note: Side effects listed were reported by people who took Rinvoq for eczema.

Warnings for Rinvoq

  • Serious infections
  • Possible higher risk of death for people with rheumatoid arthritis
  • Risk of cancer
  • Possible risk of heart attack, stroke, and other blood clots
  • Severe allergic reaction
  • Stomach and gut tears
  • Abnormal lab results (e.g., blood cell counts, cholesterol levels)
  • Possible harm to unborn babies
  • Medication in stool

Summary for Actemra

Prescription only

Actemra (tocilizumab) is an interleukin-6 (IL-6) receptor antagonist. It treats several inflammatory conditions in children and adults, including rheumatoid arthritis. It works by blocking IL-6, a chemical released by the immune system that causes inflammation and fever. Actemra (tocilizumab) is given as an injection (either through the veins or under the skin), typically weekly or every few weeks, depending on the condition you're taking it treat. Side effects include a higher risk of infections and headache.

Indications for Actemra

Pros and Cons for Actemra

Pros

  • Typically given every 1 to 4 weeks
  • Can be used in children age 2 years and older (for some conditions)
  • Comes as a prefilled syringe or autoinjector for easy at-home injections under the skin

Cons

  • Needs to be given by an injection only
  • Can cause liver problems
  • Raises your risk for infections because it weakens your immune system

Common Side Effects for Actemra

Note: The side effects you experience might differ depending on why you're taking Actemra (tocilizumab) and whether you're receive it IV or SC.

Warnings for Actemra

  • Risk of serious infections
  • Stomach tears and blockage
  • Worsening liver problems and risk of liver failure
  • Severe allergic reactions
  • Lower white blood cell (WBC) and platelet counts
  • High cholesterol
  • Vaccines

Prices with our coupons for Rinvoq vs. Actemra

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Rinvoq30 tablets / 15mg
$6,249.68$8,869.21
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Actemra1 vial / 4ml of 20mg/ml
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