Information for the public

Upadacitinib (Rinvoq) is available on the NHS as a possible treatment for ulcerative colitis in adults if:

  • they cannot have conventional treatments (such as aminosalicylates, thiopurines or glucocorticosteroids), biological treatments (such as adalimumab, golimumab, infliximab, ustekinumab, vedolizumab) or tofacitinib, or
  • their condition has not got better or has stopped getting better while taking these treatments.

Is this treatment right for me?

Your healthcare professionals should give you clear information, talk with you about your options and listen carefully to your views and concerns. Your family can be involved too, if you wish. Read more about making decisions about your care.

Questions to think about

  • How well does it work compared with other treatments?
  • What are the risks or side effects? How likely are they?
  • How will the treatment affect my day-to-day life?
  • What happens if the treatment does not work?
  • What happens if I do not want to have treatment? Are there other treatments available?

Information and support

The NHS website may be a good place to find out more.

These organisations can give you advice and support:

You can also get support from your local Healthwatch.

NICE is not responsible for the quality or accuracy of any information or advice provided by these organisations.

ISBN: 978-1-4731-4902-1

This page was last updated: