Baricitinib (Olumiant) is a type of drug known as a JAK inhibitor. These drugs work by interfering with the inflammatory processes within the immune system that lead to the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
Baricitinib is a long-term treatment. Most people who benefit from this treatment will notice an improvement within four weeks of starting treatment but further improvements may be seen over the first six months of treatment. It can be used alone or with methotrexate.
Taking baricitinib may increase the risk that you will develop a lymphoma (cancer that begins in the cells that fight infection) or other types of cancers. Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had any type of cancer.
Baricitinib may increase the risk of serious and possibly life-threatening blood clot in the lungs or legs. If you experience any of the following side effects, call your doctor or get emergency medical treatment immediately: crushing chest pain or chest heaviness; shortness of breath; cough; pain, warmth, redness, swelling, or leg tenderness; or cold sensation in the arms, hands, or legs; or muscle pain.
