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Arthritis Care of Texas Advanced Rheumatology
Medication guide

Rinvoq (upadacitinib)

How this therapy is used at Arthritis Care of Texas in Corpus Christi, TX — what it is, how it is taken, side effects, and safety checks.

Treats
Rheumatoid arthritis · Psoriatic arthritis · Ankylosing spondylitis
How given
Pill
How often
Once daily

Rinvoq is a disease-controlling treatment: a once-daily pill that blocks JAK1 signalling to calm inflammation across rheumatoid, psoriatic, and spine arthritis, easing symptoms and helping protect joints. Many people notice improvement within 2–4 weeks; full effect is judged at about 3 months. It works only while taken daily.

A once-daily tablet (a JAK inhibitor) for rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. It works inside the cell to block the JAK pathways that drive inflammation. See also the other JAK inhibitors we prescribe: Olumiant and Xeljanz.

Why the checks: The checks each answer a question: infection screening (TB, hepatitis) before starting, because JAK blockade can reactivate dormant infections; blood counts, liver tests, and lipids during treatment, because the class can move all three silently; and a review of heart and cancer history, because regulatory warnings make that history part of choosing the drug well.

Common worries

What about the warnings on JAK inhibitors?

The class carries strong regulatory warnings after a study of a related drug in older patients with cardiovascular risk factors. We therefore review your heart, smoking, and cancer history before choosing Rinvoq, use it where its benefit fits your risk profile, and monitor you during treatment.

Why do I need labs for a once-a-day pill?

Rinvoq can change blood counts, liver tests, cholesterol, and a muscle enzyme — without symptoms. Baseline and periodic labs are how those changes are caught early and managed simply.

I keep getting spots / cold sores. Is that the drug?

Acne and herpes outbreaks (cold sores, shingles) are recognised effects of JAK blockers. Tell us — they are usually manageable, and shingles vaccine status is worth reviewing.

Ready to be seen? New patients are seen within 2–4 weeks.

Call (361) 400-7700 Request an Appointment