This study investigated whether upadacitinib is a safe and effective treatment for unresponsive patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). They concluded that upadacitinib improved RA symptoms in combination with csDMARDs and was well tolerated. 

ne type of medication used to treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are synthetic DMARDs (disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs), or csDMARDs. These can be very effective, however, some patients with RA do not respond well to conventional treatment.

Upadacitinib is a new drug under investigation for RA treatment. It blocks a specific enzyme called Janus kinase 1 (JAK1) and reduces inflammation. It is unclear if upadacitinib is a safe and effective drug to treat RA in patients with an inadequate response to csDMARDs.

This study included 661 patients with RA who were unresponsive to csDMARDs.  Patients were randomly assigned to receive 15 mg upadacitinib, 30 mg upadacitinib or placebo (inactive tablet) for 12 weeks. After this period, patients received either 15 mg or 30 mg upadacitinib for up to 5 years (this study is ongoing). At the end of 12 weeks patients were assessed at a clinic and disease activity was measured.

At 12 weeks, 65% of patients taking upadacitinib achieved a 20% improvement in disease symptoms, compared to 36% of placebo patients. 48% of upadacitinib patients achieved improved disease activity compared to 17% of placebo patients. Patients in the upadacitinib groups also reported improvements in quality of life.

Negative side effects (adverse events) were reported in all groups. The most common were nausea, headache and chest infections. A greater number of serious adverse events were reported in patients taking 15 mg upadacitinib.

This study concluded that upadacitinib improved RA symptoms in combination with csDMARDs and was well tolerated.

This study looked at safety and effectiveness over a relatively short period. This trial is ongoing and it will be important to consider data on the long-term safety and effectiveness of upadacitinib when it becomes available. 

If you have any concerns regarding treatment for rheumatoid arthritis please discuss with your physician.

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