When it comes to managing pain and inflammation, many of us reach for the latest medications, trusting that modern science has our best interests at heart.
But what if the very drugs designed to help us could also leave us more vulnerable to serious illness?
A new study from Norway raises the unsettling question, and it’s one that every Australian should be aware of.
The rise of JAK inhibitors: A modern medical marvel?
Over the past decade, a new class of anti-inflammatory drugs known as Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors has become increasingly popular.
These medications, with names like Jakafi (for certain cancers) and Olumiant (for alopecia and rheumatoid arthritis), are prescribed to millions worldwide for conditions ranging from eczema and arthritis to some bone cancers.
They work by blocking specific proteins in the immune system that trigger inflammation and pain—a godsend for those living with chronic discomfort.
But as with many medical breakthroughs, there’s a catch.
The hidden risk: Lowering your defences against viruses
Researchers from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) have sounded the alarm: while JAK inhibitors are effective at reducing inflammation, they may also suppress a crucial immune pathway that helps protect our healthy cells from viral invaders.
In other words, these drugs could be lowering your body’s natural antiviral shield, making it easier for viruses like the flu or COVID-19 to take hold and cause more severe infections.
Dr Aleksandr Ianevski, one of the study’s authors, explains: ‘These genes play a crucial role in the body’s response to viral infections. By stopping or slowing down this pathway, JAK inhibitors remove the body’s ‘antiviral shield’.’
The result? Viruses can gain a stronger foothold, potentially leading to more serious illness.
What does the research show?
The Norwegian team used advanced laboratory techniques to study how JAK inhibitors affect different organs and how viruses behave in the presence of these drugs.
They looked at cells from the lungs, eyes, and brain, as well as lab-grown mini-organs, to get a comprehensive picture.
Their findings were clear: while JAK inhibitors are effective at controlling inflammation, they can pose a hidden risk for patients with latent or active viral infections.
This is particularly concerning for older adults, people with chronic illnesses, or anyone whose immune system is already compromised.
Common and serious side effects
Like all medications, JAK inhibitors come with a list of potential side effects. The more common ones include headaches, nausea, fatigue, diarrhoea, acne, and elevated cholesterol.
But there are also rarer, more serious risks: severe infections like pneumonia or shingles, damage to the stomach or intestines, and changes in blood cell counts.
Dr Sarah Erickson, a hair loss specialist, has even taken to social media to warn about some of the ‘harsh’ side effects she’s seen in her patients.
Should you be worried?
If you’re taking a JAK inhibitor, don’t panic—but do be informed. The researchers aren’t calling for these drugs to be pulled from the shelves.
Instead, they’re urging doctors and patients to be cautious, especially during viral outbreaks or pandemics.
It’s a reminder that every medication is a balance of benefits and risks, and what works wonders for one person might not be the best choice for another.
For some, the immunosuppressive effects of JAK inhibitors could even be useful in controlled settings, such as vaccine development or antiviral drug screening.
But for everyday use, especially among older adults or those with other health issues, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons carefully.
Credit: Dr Sarah Erickson / TikTok
What should you do next?
Talk to your doctor: If you’re currently taking a JAK inhibitor, don’t stop without consulting your GP or specialist. Ask about your personal risk factors and whether you should take extra precautions during flu season or COVID-19 outbreaks.
Stay up to date with vaccinations: Keeping your flu and COVID-19 vaccines current is more important than ever if your immune system is being suppressed.
Monitor for symptoms: Be vigilant for signs of infection—fever, cough, fatigue, or anything unusual—and seek medical advice promptly.
Review your medications regularly: As we age, our bodies change, and so do our medication needs. Regular medication reviews with your healthcare provider can help ensure you’re on the safest and most effective treatment plan.
The bottom line
Medical science is always evolving, and what we know today can change tomorrow. JAK inhibitors have brought relief to many, but they’re not without their risks—especially when it comes to fighting off viral infections.
As always, the best defence is good information, open communication with your healthcare team, and a healthy dose of common sense.
Have you or someone you know been prescribed a JAK inhibitor? Have you experienced any unexpected side effects, or do you have concerns about your immune health? We’d love to hear your stories and thoughts in the comments below. Your experiences could help others make more informed choices about their health.
Also read: Popular over-the-counter drug linked to cancer—should you stop taking it?
