A new Norwegian study has revealed that JAK inhibitors, commonly prescribed anti-inflammatory drugs, may significantly increase patients' vulnerability to viral infections.
The medications, used to treat conditions including rheumatoid arthritis, eczema, alopecia, and certain bone cancers, are known by brand names such as Xeljanz, Olumiant and Rinvoq.
Researchers from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology found that these drugs can facilitate the spread of viruses in the body.
"Among the viruses that more easily affect the body with the help of these drugs are Rift Valley fever virus, influenza A, adenovirus and SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19," said Denis Kainov, a professor at NTNU.
The drug could leave Britons vulnerable to Covid
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The findings raise concerns about a potentially serious hidden risk for millions of patients worldwide taking these medications.
The study found that JAK inhibitors suppress interferon-stimulated genes, which play a crucial role in the body's response to viral infections.
"These genes play a crucial role in the body's response to viral infections," said Aleksandr Ianevski, an NTNU researcher and co-author of the study.
The drugs effectively remove the body's "antiviral shield" by blocking this important immune signalling pathway. This allows viruses to more easily gain a foothold and spread throughout the body.
The researchers used advanced laboratory techniques to examine how JAK inhibitors impact organs and viral attacks.
They studied cells from the lungs, eyes and brain, as well as laboratory-created mini-organs, to understand the mechanism behind this increased vulnerability to infection.
The research team recommends that healthcare professionals exercise caution when prescribing JAK inhibitors, particularly during viral outbreaks or pandemics.
"Although JAK inhibitors are effective in the treatment of inflammation, this shows that they can pose a hidden risk for patients who have latent or active viral infections," said Erlend Ravlo, a PhD research fellow at NTNU.
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The findings are especially concerning for vulnerable patients
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The findings are especially concerning for vulnerable patients, including the elderly and individuals with chronic illnesses or disabilities.
"We recommend further studies to better understand how the drugs can be used optimally, especially during virus outbreaks or pandemics," said Ianevski.
The researchers hope to increase awareness amongst doctors about these effects to prevent patients from developing new illnesses.
The findings were published in the medical journal NAR Molecular Medicine.
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