BARICITINIB | GENERAL PHARMACEUTICALS

Description

💊 Baricitinib – General Pharmaceuticals

✅ Introduction

Baricitinib is an oral medication manufactured by General Pharmaceuticals, used primarily to treat moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis and certain cases of COVID-19-related inflammation. It belongs to the class of drugs called Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, which help reduce inflammation by interfering with immune system signaling pathways.

🧪 What is Baricitinib?

Baricitinib is a targeted synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (tsDMARD). It works by inhibiting JAK1 and JAK2 enzymes, which are involved in the immune system’s inflammatory response. This helps manage chronic inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and cytokine storm associated with COVID-19.

🩺 Medical Uses

• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): For adults with moderate to severe RA who have had an inadequate response to one or more TNF inhibitors.

• COVID-19 Treatment: Approved in some countries for treating hospitalized COVID-19 patients requiring oxygen or ventilation support.

• Other Investigational Uses: Being studied for autoimmune conditions like alopecia areata and lupus.

📏 Dosage Instructions

• Rheumatoid Arthritis: Typical dose is 2 mg to 4 mg once daily, depending on patient response and risk factors.

• COVID-19: Commonly 4 mg once daily for 14 days or until hospital discharge (under strict medical supervision).

• Dosage may be adjusted in patients with kidney or liver impairment.
  Do not self-medicate; always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions.

💡 How to Use

• Taken orally with or without food.

• Swallow the tablet whole with water.

• Take the medication at the same time every day.

• Do not crush or chew the tablets.

⚠️ Possible Side Effects

Common Side Effects:

• Upper respiratory infections

• Headache

• Nausea

• Increased cholesterol levels

• Elevated liver enzymes

Serious Side Effects:

• Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism)

• Increased risk of infections (e.g., TB, herpes zoster)

• Low white or red blood cell counts

• Liver dysfunction

• Gastrointestinal perforation (rare)

🛑 Precautions

• Not recommended for patients with active infections, tuberculosis, or severe liver disease.

• Use with caution in patients with a history of blood clots, cancer, or chronic lung disease.

• Routine blood tests are required to monitor white blood cell counts, liver function, and cholesterol levels.

• Use in pregnancy or breastfeeding only if clearly necessary and prescribed.

💊 Drug Interactions

• May interact with immunosuppressants like methotrexate, cyclosporine.

• Caution with live vaccines during treatment.

• Inform your doctor of all medications and supplements you are using.

🌡️ Storage Guidelines

• Store in a cool, dry place at room temperature (15°C–30°C).

• Keep away from moisture and direct sunlight.

• Keep out of reach of children.

❌ Who Should Not Use Baricitinib

• Patients with active or serious infections

• Those with severe hepatic impairment

• People with known hypersensitivity to the drug

• Individuals with a history of blood clots or certain cancers without medical supervision

💪 Key Benefits

• Reduces joint pain, swelling, and stiffness in RA

• Helps prevent joint damage and improve mobility

• Shown to reduce inflammation and hospital time in COVID-19 treatment

• Convenient once-daily oral dosage

• Manufactured by General Pharmaceuticals, ensuring quality and compliance

📦 Packaging & Availability

• Available in tablet form (commonly 2 mg and 4 mg strength)

• Supplied in blister packs or bottles

• Prescription-only medication

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. How long does Baricitinib take to work?
➡️ In rheumatoid arthritis, effects may be seen within 2–4 weeks. COVID-19 patients may see improvements within days of starting.

Q2. Is Baricitinib a steroid?
➡️ No, it is a JAK inhibitor, not a steroid.

Q3. Can it be taken with food?
➡️ Yes, it can be taken with or without food.

Q4. Is long-term use safe?
➡️ Yes, but only under regular medical monitoring due to risk of side effects.

Q5. Can I stop Baricitinib suddenly?
➡️ Consult your doctor before discontinuing, as stopping suddenly may cause flare-ups.