Everyone in the inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) community should be aware of a class of medications known as the “JAK inhibitors”.

These medications are unique in that, unlike the biologic medications which must be given intravenously or by injection, they are taken orally. They are FDA approved for the treatment of both Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.  

Since December 2023, upadacitinib (RINVOQ®) has been funded in Australia for patients with Crohn’s disease who are not responding to biologic medications like infliximab, ustekinumab, vedolizumab, and adalimumab.  

However, here in New Zealand, upadacitinib is currently only funded for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, but not IBD. 

How do JAK inhibitors work? 

Upadacitinib (referred to as “upa” by most doctors) blocks the effects of the Janus Kinase enzymes, primarily the enzyme called “JAK1”. These enzymes create signals in the body's immune system that result in inflammation. Blocking these enzymes therefore blocks the inflammation. These “small molecule” drugs are well-absorbed when taken orally, unlike biologic medications which are very large molecules. Their onset of action is also often very rapid. Like all of our medications that suppress the immune system, however, there can be an increased risk of infections and people taking this medicine will need to avoid live vaccines.  

While these medications are not currently funded in New Zealand for IBD, you can get more information from your health care professional. CCNZ is committed to continue to advocate for funding of the JAK inhibitors and other new, state-of-the-art treatments for our IBD community.