New to Olumiant/Barcinitib

Hi, I have RA and have just started taking Olumiant. I’m noticing a good improvement and I’m happy with it so far (in my 2nd week). I am however kicking myself now though for not having a flu shot before I started. I’m in Victoria, Australia and get a really bad cold/flu like illness almost every winter which has in the past resulted in a chest infection. I’m also going to Bali next September and wondering about travel vaccinations. Has anyone else stopped meds to have vaccines or have any experience in regards to this? Also what is your experience regarding weight loss or gain? So far I haven’t had the awful headaches or nausea others have mentioned so I’m feeling pretty positive thus far.

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There's no need to stop RA drugs for a flu jab. I can't answer about the other jabs as it depends on whether they are LIVE jabs or not, Your GP or pharmacist should be able to tell you.

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I've stopped and started Baricitinib for various reasons and found that it always clicks back in within a couple of days. I've found it a 'clean' drug in that the side effects have been almost non existent apart from repeated viral infections.

The literature says it can cause weight gain, but I have lost 35 kg since taking it, so I guess we are all different.

The flu vaccine should not cause any issues, it's the live vaccines , such as shingles you cannot have on these drugs. But check with your rheumatologist first, JAK inhibitors are very new drugs , the GPs often don't know what can and cannot be taken with them.

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Hi 🤗 I've been taking Baracitinb for 5months now and I'm finding its working for me, 🤞🤞but I have put on 7kilos in weight. I've also been on steroids for 11months so I dont think that really helps with the weight gain. I've just had my flu & pneumonia jab while on this drug,....I only paused it for 10days while taking doxycycline for a sinus problem.

On the positive side, I'm more mobile with less pain and can live with those extra kilos (better than been bed bound & crippled with pain) and my quality of life is much better for taking Baracitinb. I holiday abroad twice a year with no problems but always carry an emergency supply of a broad spectrum antibiotic off my GP "just in case" Good Luck I hope its your holy grail and you get on that wonderful holiday to Bali ! We still have to live & enjoy our lives to the fullest! 🤗X