Drugs were designed to banish discomfort and disease.
But a new study has revealed that a class of common anti-inflammatory drugs may actually make people sicker.
Researchers at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) have found that a group of medications known as Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors may increase the body’s susceptibility to viral infections.
The medications work by blocking immune system proteins in the body that often lead to inflammation and pain.
These medications are used to treat a range of medical conditions affecting millions worldwide, such as rheumatoid arthritis, eczema, alopecia, and certain bone cancers.
These are relatively recent drugs, with the first JAK inhibitor, marketed as Jakafi for cancer therapy, gaining FDA approval only in 2011.
However, there is now evidence suggesting these drugs – which are typically taken as pills – could help the flu, Covid-19 and other viruses infiltrate the body’s immune system, potentially leading to severe infection.
The scientists say this is because the drugs ‘suppress an important immune signaling pathway that helps protect healthy cells from viral attacks.’
Drugs are supposed to help banish discomfort and disease, but a new study has revealed that a class of anti-inflammatory drugs can actually make people sicker (stock image)
The scientists found drugs in the class, such as baricitinib, which is sold under the brand name Olumiant for the treatment of alopecia – slow down the genes that respond to viruses.
‘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 new paper.
By stopping or slowing down this pathway, JAK inhibitors remove the body’s ‘antiviral shield’.
This allows viruses to more easily gain a foothold in the body and spread.
The researchers used advanced techniques in a lab to look at how JAK inhibitors impact organs and how viruses attack the body once they have been exposed.
They examined cells from the lungs, eyes and brain, as well as laboratory-created mini-organs.
Off the back of their findings Erlend Ravlo, a PhD research fellow at NTNU, said: ‘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.’
The findings suggest healthcare professionals should be cautious when prescribing JAK inhibitors, especially during viral outbreaks.
Common side effects of the medications include headaches, nausea, fatigue, diarrhea, acne, and elevated cholesterol.
Meanwhile, rarer but more serious side effects include severe infections like pneumonia or shingles, damage to the stomach or intestines, and changes in blood cell counts.
Dr Sarah Erickson, who specializes in treating hair loss, sounds the alarm about JAK inhibitors in one of her TikToks where she notes some of the ‘harsh’ side effects
They are relatively new drugs, and the first JAK inhibitor, sold under the brand name Jakafi for cancer treatment, was only just approved by the FDA in 2011 (stock image)
While the immunosuppressive effects of the drugs could be harmful, the researchers point out that it could be useful in controlled environments, such as in the development of vaccines or screening of antiviral drugs.
‘We recommend further studies to better understand how the drugs can be used optimally, especially during virus outbreaks or pandemics,’ says Ianevski.
The researchers hope to increase awareness among doctors and researchers about the effects of these drugs to prevent patients from developing new illnesses.
This is especially important for vulnerable patients, such as the elderly or individuals with chronic illnesses or disabilities.
The findings were published in the medical journal, NAR Molecular Medicine.
