Archive · 20 May 2025
Arthritis Drugs May Weaken Immunity Against COVID, Flu
Some medicines can have unexpected effects, especially during outbreaks of viruses like the flu or COVID-19.
Scientists in Norway found that drugs called JAK inhibitors, often used for arthritis and other conditions, might make it easier for viruses to spread in the body.
These drugs seem to weaken the body's natural defenses by slowing down a key system that protects cells from being infected.
The researchers tested these drugs on cells from lungs, eyes, and brains, as well as mini-organs.
They found that these drugs can make it easier for viruses to spread faster.
Doctors should be careful when prescribing these drugs when viruses like the flu or COVID-19 are spreading.
However, scientists say these effects could be useful in drug development or testing.
JAK inhibitors, used for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, may weaken the body's defenses against viruses like influenza and COVID-19.
Researchers at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) found that these drugs can help viruses spread more easily.
The drugs slow down the activity of genes that protect against viral attacks, acting like a security system in the body.
The study tested the effects of JAK inhibitors on human cells and mini-organs.
Doctors should be cautious when prescribing these drugs, especially during widespread viral outbreaks.
- Who
- Scientists from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)
- What
- A study found that commonly used arthritis drugs (JAK inhibitors) may weaken immunity against COVID-19 and flu.
- When
- May 20, 2025
- Where
- Norway
- Why
- To investigate the side effects of JAK inhibitors on the body's immune response to viral infections.
Potential Risks
Potential Benefits
Use of JAK Inhibitors
Potential Risks
Doctors should be cautious when prescribing JAK inhibitors, especially during times when viruses are circulating widely.
Potential Benefits
In controlled environments, such as during vaccine development or drug screening, this side effect might actually be helpful.
- Drugs Studied
- JAK inhibitors (e.g., baricitinib)
- Primary Use of Drugs
- Treating rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune diseases
- Research Institution
- Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)
- Potential Effect
- May weaken the body's defenses against viruses
- Viruses of Concern
- SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19), influenza A, adenovirus
- Published
- May 20, 2025