FDA approves Rinvoq (Upadacitinib) for GCA

I have done some reading about Rinvoq unrelated to GCA.
Since the patent for Humira has expired, insurances have been removing it from their formularies forcing some patients to find an alternative. Biosimilars are available for Humira and while Rinvoq is not a biosimilar for Humira, it is an alternative for some patients depending on their medical condition. Humira and Rinvoq are both Abbvie products. Skyrizi is also an Abbvie product.
Rinvoq comes in tablet form so it seems very appealing, no injections, no infusions.
Side effects are always a concern and I was reading patient reviews.

I forgot about posting this. Has anyone started Rinvoq for GCA?
https://www.rinvoqhcp.com/giant-cell-arteritis
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Rinvoq isn't a biologic. Biologic medications are complex drugs derived from living organisms, often administered via an injection or an IV infusion. Rinvoq, on the other hand, is a small molecule drug manufactured from chemicals and taken orally.

I have done some reading about Rinvoq unrelated to GCA.
Since the patent for Humira has expired, insurances have been removing it from their formularies forcing some patients to find an alternative. Biosimilars are available for Humira and while Rinvoq is not a biosimilar for Humira, it is an alternative for some patients depending on their medical condition. Humira and Rinvoq are both Abbvie products. Skyrizi is also an Abbvie product.
Rinvoq comes in tablet form so it seems very appealing, no injections, no infusions.
Side effects are always a concern and I was reading patient reviews.

I'm with you. The side effects of Rinvoq concern me. It has the same risks as Actemra for perforations in the digestive tract, plus Rinvoq has additional risks of cardiovascular problems. Some people with GCA are already at risk of stroke from the GCA, so adding a drug that increases the risk of stroke doesn't seem like a good idea.