skip to main content

Upadacitinib vs Baricitinib — SCE Rheumatology MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardRheumatology PharmacologyUpadacitinib vs BaricitinibSCE Rheumatology

A patient asks whether upadacitinib’s relative JAK1 selectivity makes it safer than baricitinib for every major adverse outcome. Which statement is accurate?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: E — Relative selectivity differs, but both retain MHRA class-wide safety warnings

Upadacitinib is relatively JAK1-selective, whereas baricitinib inhibits JAK1/JAK2, but selectivity does not remove the MHRA class warnings for serious infection, VTE, major cardiovascular events, malignancy and mortality. Choice remains individualised and risk based.

Reference: MHRA: JAK inhibitors — measures to reduce cardiovascular, malignancy, VTE, infection and mortality risks (Published April 2023): https://www.gov.uk/drug-safety-update/janus-kinase-jak-inhibitors-new-measures-to-reduce-risks-of-major-cardiovascular-events-malignancy-venous-thromboembolism-serious-infections-and-increased-mortality; UK Rinvoq summary of product characteristics (Current UK SmPC, accessed 30 July 2026): https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/13935/smpc