Baricitinib is a substance that reduces the response of the immune system, decreasing the action of enzymes that promote inflammation and the appearance of joint damage in cases of rheumatoid arthritis. In this way, this remedy is able to reduce inflammation, relieving the symptoms of the disease like pain and swelling of the joints.
However, this remedy is not yet approved in Brazil by Anvisa, nor in the United States by the FDA, and can only be purchased in Europe with a prescription, in the form of 2 and 4 mg tablets.
What is it for
Baricitinib is indicated for the treatment of moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis in cases where the symptoms do not improve with the use of other antirheumatic drugs.
How to take
Treatment with baricitinib should always be directed by a physician, however, the indicated starting dose is 4 mg once daily.
However, this dose can be lowered to 2 mg per day when inflammation is controlled.
Possible side effects
The use of this medicine can cause some side effects such as nausea, acne, weight gain and more frequent onset of respiratory infections. In addition, some patients may also have abnormal blood tests, especially in the number of platelets and neutrophils.
Who should not use
Baricitinib is contraindicated for pregnant women and people who are hypersensitive to any of the ingredients in the formula.
In addition, this drug should be used with caution, and to a lesser extent, in elderly children and patients with liver or kidney disease.
