JAK inhibitors (JAKi) are medications used to treat inflammatory rheumatic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and axial spondyloarthritis. These medications work by blocking specific proteins called Janus kinases that are involved in inflammation. They help reduce joint pain, swelling, and other symptoms of rheumatic conditions. JAK inhibitors are typically taken as oral tablets and are used when other treatments haven’t worked well enough.

Rheumatoid Arthritis – A chronic inflammatory condition that primarily affects joints, causing swelling, stiffness, and pain. The immune system mistakenly attacks the joint lining, leading to gradual joint damage. The condition typically starts in smaller joints of hands and feet, often affecting both sides of the body symmetrically. Over time, it can spread to larger joints and may cause joint deformity.

Psoriatic Arthritis – A form of arthritis that develops in some people with psoriasis, causing joint inflammation, stiffness, and swelling. It can affect any joint in the body and may develop before, after, or at the same time as skin psoriasis. The condition can vary from mild to severe, and symptoms may come and go. Joint problems often affect fingers and toes, causing them to become swollen and sausage-like.

Axial Spondyloarthritis – A chronic inflammatory disease primarily affecting the spine and sacroiliac joints where the spine connects to the pelvis. The condition causes back pain and stiffness, typically starting in early adulthood. Pain and stiffness are usually worse in the morning or after periods of inactivity. The inflammation can lead to the growth of new bone, potentially causing some vertebrae to fuse over time.