Question 1

Can I receive vaccinations while on Rinvoq?

Accepted Answer

While on Rinvoq, you can generally receive most types of vaccines. However, getting any necessary vaccinations before starting the medication is advisable. Live vaccines should be avoided shortly before and during treatment with Rinvoq, as their safety and efficacy in combination with this medication are not well established. Examples of live vaccines include FluMist (the nasal spray flu vaccine), Varivax (the chickenpox vaccine), and the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, and rubella). Always inform your healthcare provider or pharmacist that you are taking or planning to start Rinvoq before getting any vaccinations to ensure all vaccines administered are safe for your situation.

Question 2

Is it safe to breastfeed while on Rinvoq?

Accepted Answer

Breastfeeding is not recommended while taking Rinvoq and for six days following your last dose. Due to limited information on the drug’s safety in breast milk, there is a potential risk of serious harm to the baby. Discussing alternative feeding options for your baby with your healthcare provider during your treatment is important.

Question 3

Is Rinvoq considered an immunosuppressant?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Rinvoq is classified as an immunosuppressant. It reduces the immune system’s activity, which helps decrease inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), such as joint pain and swelling. Rinvoq is a type of disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) and falls under the category of medications known as Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors. However, by dampening immune system activity, Rinvoq increases the risk of serious infections.

Question 4

Is it safe to use Rinvoq during pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

The safety of Rinvoq during pregnancy is not well established due to limited research. Animal studies have suggested potential fetal harm, although these findings may not directly correlate to human outcomes. However, the potential risks necessitate caution. It is generally recommended to avoid becoming pregnant while taking Rinvoq. Healthcare providers typically require a pregnancy test before initiating treatment and advise the use of effective contraception during treatment and for four weeks after the last dose of Rinvoq. If you become pregnant while taking Rinvoq, inform your healthcare provider immediately.