Janus Kinase Inhibitor

PHILADELPHIA — Use of Janus kinase inhibitors did not increase the risk for major cardiovascular or thromboembolic events among patients with inflammatory bowel disease compared with anti-tumor necrosis factor therapy, data showed.

This month’s Healio Exclusive highlights the efficacy of Janus kinase inhibitors in the management of ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.

Despite an existing class-wide black box warning, 45% of health care providers felt cardiovascular concerns related to Janus kinase inhibitors “were irrelevant” to patients with inflammatory bowel disease, according to survey results.

Zasocitinib, a potent and selective tyrosine kinase 2 inhibitor, safely and effectively cleared psoriasis in a high proportion of patients, according to a study.

Although evidence suggests the risk for cardiovascular events with small-molecule drugs is low in patients with inflammatory bowel disease, experts advise screening for risk factors and stratification before initiation of therapy.