There are currently two FDA-approved JAK inhibitors for treating spondylitis:
• Tofacitinib (Xeljanz) - Approved for ankylosing spondylitis
• Upadacitinib (Rinvoq) - Approved for both ankylosing spondylitis and non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis A key advantage of JAK inhibitors is that they are taken as oral pills Show Full Answer
There are currently two FDA-approved JAK inhibitors for treating spondylitis:
• Tofacitinib (Xeljanz) - Approved for ankylosing spondylitis
• Upadacitinib (Rinvoq) - Approved for both ankylosing spondylitis and non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis A key advantage of JAK inhibitors is that they are taken as oral pills rather than injections, unlike biologic medications. However, they don't stay in the body as long, which means symptoms may return more quickly if treatment is stopped.
In clinical trials, these medications have shown promising results in reducing inflammation and pain for people with spondylitis who haven't responded well to other treatments.
July 7, 2025