Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Rinvoq (upadacitinib) and Cibinqo (abrocitinib) are both medications in the Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor class used to treat inflammatory conditions. They are similar in that they both treat eczema (atopic dermatitis) in people aged 12 and older, but Rinvoq is also used for other conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and ulcerative colitis. Rinvoq is available as an extended-release tablet and an oral solution, while Cibinqo is only available as a tablet. Rinvoq is typically taken once daily, with specific dosing for different conditions, whereas Cibinqo starts at 100 mg once daily and may be increased to 200 mg if needed. Both medications can increase the risk of infections and have warnings for serious side effects like blood clots and cancer. Additionally, Rinvoq can cause side effects such as acne and weight gain, while Cibinqo commonly causes nausea and cold symptoms. Rinvoq should not be taken with grapefruit, and Cibinqo should be avoided with certain blood thinners. Neither medication is considered safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Rinvoq (upadacitinib)
Cibinqo (abrocitinib)
Rinvoq (upadacitinib)
Cibinqo (abrocitinib)
Summary of Rinvoq vs. Cibinqo
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.
Summary for JAK inhibitor
Prescription only
Cibinqo (abrocitinib) is used to treat moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (also known as eczema) in adults and children ages 12 years and older. It's taken by mouth, typically once daily. Cibinqo (abrocitinib) isn't a first-choice option for this condition because it has a FDA black box warning for the potential to cause serious side effects, such as cancer and infections. Some of the more common side effects of this medication include nausea, cold symptoms, and headaches.
Indications of Rinvoq vs. Cibinqo
Indications for
Moderate-to-severe inflammatory conditions in which other treatments haven't worked: