Overview
Filgotinib is a preferential JAK1 inhibitor taken as a once-daily oral tablet, approved for moderate-to-severe ulcerative colitis. Its preferential selectivity for JAK1 over other JAK enzymes aims to balance efficacy with a more targeted safety profile.
Key Uses
Moderate-to-severe ulcerative colitis
Patients who have failed conventional therapy or prior biologics
Also approved for rheumatoid arthritis
How It Works
Preferentially inhibits JAK1 over JAK2, JAK3, and TYK2
Oral tablet: 200 mg once daily (induction and maintenance)
Rapid onset — improvement often seen within weeks
Safety & Self-Care
Avoid in men wishing to father children during treatment — possible effect on sperm count at high doses (discuss with your doctor)
Regular blood monitoring: CBC, lipids, liver enzymes
Risk of herpes zoster — consider varicella vaccination before starting
Avoid live vaccines; maintain inactivated vaccine schedule
Not recommended in pregnancy — use effective contraception
Tell your doctor about all other medications including supplements
Contact Your IMCC Team
Contact your IMCC team if symptoms worsen, you develop a rash or shingles signs, or if you are planning a pregnancy or trying to conceive.
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