Can JAK inhibitors be taken safely if you have high cholesterol?
JAK inhibitors like tofacitinib (Xeljanz) and upadacitinib (Rinvoq) can actually cause high cholesterol as a side effect. This is something to discuss carefully with your rheumatologist, especially if you already have elevated cholesterol levels.
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Can JAK inhibitors be taken safely if you have high cholesterol?
JAK inhibitors like tofacitinib (Xeljanz) and upadacitinib (Rinvoq) can actually cause high cholesterol as a side effect. This is something to discuss carefully with your rheumatologist, especially if you already have elevated cholesterol levels.
Your doctor will likely want to monitor your cholesterol levels regularly while you're on a JAK inhibitor. They can help determine if the benefits of the medication outweigh the risks in your specific situation.
If high cholesterol is a concern, your healthcare team may:
- Check your cholesterol levels before starting treatment
- Monitor your levels throughout treatment
- Adjust cholesterol medications if needed
- Consider alternative AS treatments if the risk is too high
It's important to be open with your doctor about your cholesterol history so they can make the best treatment decision for you and watch for any changes that might need attention.
November 22, 2025
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