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Acne Rates Higher Than Expected in IBD Treatment
This study suggests acne is a common real-world side effect of upadacitinib for IBD and can affect treatment decisions and quality of life, especially for younger patients.
IBD patients considering or taking upadacitinib (including teens and young adults), their caregivers, and clinicians who prescribe or manage JAK inhibitors.
What To Know
A single-center survey of 100 IBD patients treated with upadacitinib found new or worsening acne in about half of respondents, with many requiring dermatology care or prescription treatments. Acne led to dose reduction, therapy changes, or discontinuation in a minority (about 17%) of patients, though most felt the drug’s benefits outweighed the skin effects.
The report emphasizes that acne after starting upadacitinib can be more than mild cosmetic bother — a notable share described moderate or severe disease and some needed ongoing dermatologic management. Younger patients had higher rates. The authors suggest counseling patients before starting upadacitinib and arranging early dermatology input if acne appears.
How this was reported: The article summarizes a cross-sectional survey from a prospective IBD biobank at a tertiary center and cites a Crohn’s & Colitis 360 publication. It does not provide randomized trial data; findings reflect real-world patient reports from one center.
Practical points: If you or a patient are starting upadacitinib, expect discussion about possible acne, consider early skin-care strategies, and know dermatology referral may be needed. Treatment changes for acne occurred but were uncommon.
The findings come from a single-center survey (100 patients) and reflect patient-reported outcomes rather than randomized trial data. This does not mean people should stop treatment; rather, anticipate and manage acne proactively. The original Crohn’s & Colitis 360 paper is the primary source for study details.
