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Long-Term Use Of Rinvoq In Seniors: Benefits And Risks To Consider
Rinvoq (upadacitinib), a Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor, has emerged as a powerful treatment for seniors with chronic inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), and ulcerative colitis (UC). For adults aged 65 and older, managing these conditions often requires balancing symptom relief with the risks associated with long-term medication use. Rinvoq’s ability to achieve sustained remission, as demonstrated in 3-year RA clinical trials, offers hope for improved quality of life. However, its serious risks, including lymphoma, blood clots, and cardiovascular events, particularly in seniors, necessitate careful consideration. This article explores Rinvoq’s long-term efficacy, its risks for seniors, the importance of monitoring, and strategies for discussing treatment plans with healthcare providers. Note that Velsipity (etrasimod), a treatment for UC, is not indicated for RA or PsA and has limited data in seniors, so this discussion focuses primarily on Rinvoq. Rinvoq’s Role in Treating Chronic Conditions Rinvoq is a once-daily oral medication that suppresses the immune system by blocking JAK enzymes, reducing inflammation responsible for joint pain, swelling, and damage in conditions like RA and PsA. It is FDA-approved for adults with moderate to severe RA, PsA, UC, Crohn’s disease, ankylosing spondylitis, and other inflammatory disorders when tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blockers, like Humira or Enbrel, have failed or are not tolerated. For seniors, who often face debilitating symptoms and comorbidities, Rinvoq’s targeted mechanism offers an alternative to biologics, which require injections. Clinical trials demonstrate Rinvoq’s efficacy. In RA, phase 3 trials (SELECT program) involving over 4,300 patients showed that 15 mg daily significantly reduced joint pain, swelling, and stiffness by 12 weeks, with some patients experiencing relief within 1 week. Long-term data from a 3-year extension study indicated sustained clinical remission or low disease activity in many patients, with 20% improvement in symptoms when used with conventional synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (csDMARDs) like methotrexate. For PsA, Rinvoq improved joint and skin symptoms, while in UC, it achieved remission in adults after 8 weeks of 45 mg induction dosing, followed by 15 mg maintenance. These outcomes are particularly valuable for seniors, as RA affects over 1.3 million Americans, many over 65, causing disability and reduced mobility. Read more:Is Botox Worth It? Comparing Costs And Results For Forehead And Crow’s Feet Benefits of Long-Term Rinvoq Use in Seniors For seniors, Rinvoq’s benefits extend beyond symptom relief to improving daily function and preventing disease progression. Key advantages include: Sustained Remission: The 3-year RA trial data showed that continuous 15 mg Rinvoq treatment maintained remission rates, allowing seniors to manage symptoms long-term. This stability reduces flares, which can be particularly debilitating for older adults with reduced physical resilience. Improved Mobility: By reducing joint inflammation, Rinvoq helps seniors maintain independence, enabling activities like gardening or walking. A patient review on RheumatoidArthritis.net described a 60-year-old woman who, after starting Rinvoq, regained energy and experienced no joint swelling, highlighting its transformative potential. Oral Administration: Unlike biologics, Rinvoq’s oral tablet simplifies treatment for seniors who may struggle with injections or infusions, improving adherence. Rapid Onset: Many patients report symptom improvement within weeks, offering faster relief compared to some DMARDs, which is critical for seniors facing chronic pain. These benefits make Rinvoq a compelling option for seniors whose conditions have not responded to TNF blockers, potentially delaying irreversible joint damage and enhancing quality of life. Read more:Dietary Approaches In The Management Of Diabetic Patients With Kidney Disease Risks of Long-Term Rinvoq Use in Seniors Despite its efficacy, Rinvoq carries significant risks, particularly for seniors aged 65 and older, due to age-related declines in immune function, liver, and kidney health, as well as higher prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors. The FDA has issued boxed warnings for serious side effects, including: Increased Risk of Cancer: Rinvoq may elevate the risk of lymphoma and other malignancies, such as non-melanoma skin cancer. Clinical studies of another JAK inhibitor showed higher malignancy rates in RA patients over 50 with cardiovascular risk factors, with current or past smokers at greater risk. Seniors, especially those with a smoking history, should discuss skin cancer screenings and limit sun exposure. Blood Clots: Rinvoq increases the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), and arterial thrombosis, particularly in patients over 50 with at least one cardiovascular risk factor (e.g., hypertension, diabetes). In seniors, who often have comorbidities, symptoms like leg swelling or shortness of breath require immediate medical attention. Cardiovascular Events: Major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), including heart attack and stroke, are more frequent in seniors over 50 with cardiovascular risk factors, especially smokers. A postmarketing study of another JAK inhibitor reported higher MACE rates compared to TNF blockers. Serious Infections: As an immunosuppressant, Rinvoq lowers infection-fighting ability, increasing risks of tuberculosis (TB), shingles, and bacterial or fungal infections. Seniors are more susceptible due to age-related immune decline. Pre-treatment screening for TB and hepatitis B/C is essential. Increased Mortality: Studies of a similar JAK inhibitor showed higher all-cause mortality in RA patients over 50 with cardiovascular risk factors, prompting caution in seniors. Liver and Cholesterol Changes: Rinvoq can elevate liver enzymes (ALT, AST) and cholesterol levels, which may indicate liver damage or cardiovascular risk. Seniors with pre-existing liver or kidney issues face higher risks, and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) advises against Rinvoq use in those with severe liver problems. Common side effects, affecting over 2% of RA patients, include upper respiratory infections, nausea, cough, fever, acne, headache, weight gain, and elevated creatine phosphokinase. In seniors, these may be more pronounced due to reduced organ function. Special Considerations for Seniors Seniors face unique challenges with Rinvoq due to age-related factors: Comorbidities: Conditions like heart disease, diabetes, or chronic lung disease increase risks of MACE, blood clots, and infections. Rinvoq should only be used if no suitable alternatives exist for patients over 65 or with cardiovascular risk factors, per EMA guidelines. Polypharmacy: Seniors often take multiple medications, increasing interaction risks. Rinvoq should not be combined with other JAK inhibitors, biologics, or potent immunosuppressants like azathioprine. Concomitant use with methotrexate or corticosteroids is permitted but requires monitoring. Reduced Organ Function: Impaired liver or kidney function can affect Rinvoq metabolism, necessitating dose adjustments (e.g., 15 mg daily for RA in seniors with kidney damage). The EMA restricts Rinvoq use in patients over 65 unless no alternatives are available, reflecting heightened risks in this population. Monitoring Requirements Regular monitoring is critical to ensure Rinvoq’s safety in seniors. Healthcare providers typically recommend: Blood Tests: Monthly or quarterly tests to monitor cholesterol, liver enzymes (ALT, AST), and blood cell counts (red and white cells) for signs of anemia, neutropenia, or liver damage. Elevated cholesterol may require statins, while significant liver enzyme increases may necessitate dose reduction or discontinuation. Infection Screening: Pre-treatment TB and hepatitis B/C tests, with ongoing vigilance for symptoms like fever, night sweats, or cough. Shingles vaccination is recommended before starting Rinvoq. Cardiovascular and Clot Risk: Regular blood pressure and pulse checks, with prompt reporting of symptoms like chest pain, leg swelling, or shortness of breath. Cancer Screenings: Annual skin checks for non-melanoma skin cancer and discussions about lymphoma risk, especially for smokers. Seniors should keep all lab appointments to detect changes early, as even minor lab abnormalities can signal serious conditions. Comparing Rinvoq and Velsipity Velsipity, a sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor modulator, is approved for moderate to severe UC in adults but not for RA or PsA. Limited data exist on its long-term use in seniors, and its side effects (e.g., bradycardia, infections) differ from Rinvoq’s. Unlike Rinvoq’s broad indications, Velsipity’s role is narrower, making it irrelevant for seniors with RA or PsA. For UC, Rinvoq’s remission data and oral administration may be preferred, but Velsipity could be considered if Rinvoq is contraindicated. Seniors should consult gastroenterologists to compare UC treatments. Tips for Discussing Rinvoq with Doctors Effective communication with healthcare providers ensures safe, personalized treatment plans. Seniors can use these strategies: Prepare Questions: Ask about Rinvoq’s benefits versus risks specific to your age, comorbidities, and smoking history. Inquire: “What are my alternatives if Rinvoq’s risks are too high?” or “How will you monitor my cholesterol and liver function?” Share Medical History: Disclose all conditions (e.g., heart disease, cancer history), medications, and lifestyle factors (e.g., smoking). Mention past TNF blocker experiences to justify Rinvoq use. Set Goals: Discuss treatment objectives, such as pain reduction or maintaining mobility, to align Rinvoq with your needs. Ask: “Can Rinvoq help me stay active for daily tasks?” Understand Monitoring: Clarify the frequency of blood tests and symptoms to report immediately (e.g., leg swelling, fever). Request a written monitoring schedule. Explore Alternatives: If risks outweigh benefits, ask about DMARDs (e.g., methotrexate, sulfasalazine), biologics, or non-pharmacologic options like physical therapy. Involve a Rheumatologist: For RA or PsA, consult a specialist to tailor the plan, as they can assess disease activity and adjust doses. Seniors should also discuss cost, as Rinvoq’s price varies by insurance, and AbbVie’s patient assistance programs (e.g., AbbVie Contigo) may help. Conclusion Rinvoq offers significant benefits for seniors with chronic inflammatory conditions, with long-term data showing sustained remission and improved mobility in RA and other disorders. However, its risks—lymphoma, blood clots, cardiovascular events, and infections—are amplified in those over 65, particularly with comorbidities or smoking history. Regular blood tests for cholesterol, liver, and blood cell levels, along with vigilant infection and cancer screenings, are essential for safe use. By preparing informed questions, sharing comprehensive medical histories, and collaborating with rheumatologists, seniors can weigh Rinvoq’s benefits against its risks to create effective, personalized treatment plans. For those with UC, Velsipity may be an alternative, but its role in seniors remains less established. With careful monitoring and open dialogue, Rinvoq can be a valuable tool for managing chronic conditions while prioritizing safety in older adults.
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How Can Students Make Money While Studying?
People naturally work in hospitality and retail for traditional students' weekends or evenings. But many students found other ways of financing their lifestyles without traditional roles. Consider these business ways of supplementing your bank account without interfering with classes and training. Followings are tips to learnHow Can Students Make Money While Studying? Involve in Online Surveys: Completing online surveys has become a popular means of making money for students in their free time. Research companies are constantly looking for new members worldwide to test and respond to new products. This is a great time to make money during your study. Paid Internships: Stages often fulfill academic demands, something about bartending and waiting tables which can rarely be said. Practices are typically temporary, but they can become lasting career opportunities a semester, summer, or whole school year. One of the key differences between a paid and a part-time internship: Part-Time Employment: Timothy Jaconette, the founder of Advanced Admit, a college guidance, and coaching company, says that this bonus points if the work matches your professional interests or can study in a job. Here's the key to flexibility. You want a boss who works in the midterm, the finals, and the main projects around your college schedule that change your student's term. Use the sites called "Get Paid to": Get Paid to' sites answer the question, 'how do I earn money during my studies?' A GPT website is like an online survey. However, the difference is that several activities and offers are awarded to you with vouchers or cash. The surveys are not confined to completing only. Sell your Bills: Selling your notes is another great way to make money while studying. This could be an excellent way of making money as a student if you are one of the students who do not mind sharing their notes. There are locations where you can sell your notes on a platform. You only have to upload your summaries and the price. Selling Books for the Course: Keep them up for the students' new intake and publish those books. Students are more likely than new ones to buy second-hand books because new books are very costly. Another way to make money as a student is to buy the textbooks of other students when they finish at the end of the year. Looking for Your Car Park: Many student lodgings have a parking space. It is a great opportunity to make money when you study if you don't use this parking area in a hectic area. Many people probably have to drive to the city center to work and pay for parking every day. Then you have a market where you can rent a car park. In this way, students can learnHow Can Students Make Money While Studying? Get an Independent Model: Many sites throughout the internet focus on this type of exchange. If it doesn't matter if you've taken off, you’re clothing and are comfortable in your body, modeling life can help you make money during your studies. You only have to sit down and let artists take your pictures, sculpt them or paint them. See Videos: The number of sites gives you the possibility of sitting down, relaxing, and watching viral videos. This is another way of making money from what you do now in your ordinary daily life. You can make money by studying — literally. This way, students can learnHow Can Students Make Money While Studying? Lateral Gigs: Take your main gig at college. Priority should be given to classes, homework, and studying. However, thanks to an ever-increasing gig economy, you can take over as your schedule permits. Side gigs allow you to set your schedule and workload so that you are not juggling three shifts during mid-term times. It will be helpful to learnHow Can Students Make Money While Studying? Small Business Social Media Management: Although social media has become an important feature in many organizations, many small companies do not have the time or expertise to manage their social media accounts successfully. Get in touch with a local business and offer to post your comments, messages, etc., on Facebook and Instagram. You can negotiate a monthly contract fee, and you will all be fixed. Consider writing your book in your spare time a longer-term project. But once it is published, as long as it is sold, you will receive a passive income, and you do not have to pick up your finger. It sounds like a huge feat, but the truth is that now everyone can publish an eBook – and you can make some great money if you have a great idea and good writing skills. Get an Account for High-Performance Savings: Speaking of passive income, one of the safest ways of getting money is to build on what you have already been saved if you have the luck to have some cash in the bank already. This will help helpful to learnHow Can Students Make Money While Studying? You will see your bank balance grow, and you'll save all you have to do by changing to a bank that offers higher interest rates.
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How To Keep Your Student Life In Balance
To optimize functioning, it's necessary to seek out a balance between the assorted roles one plays. A student usually wears many various hats: partner, worker, friend, classmate, etc. usually times these roles square measure in conflict, and a student should be adept at getting to a spread of things and assessing priorities. How will it impact academics? School-life balance is vital for best educational functioning. Students usually grade teachers at the expense of non-public factors, together with relationships and exercise. This may result in a decline in educational performance, as general health and well-being square measure vital to best educational functioning. How will it impact relationships? The quality of your relationships will verify the health of your school/life balance. an outsized specialized in teachers will cause strife in personal relationships, minimizing your sense of support. Similarly, a preoccupation with relationship problems at the expense of teachers or work problems often damages performance, which might place more strain on the individual and therefore the relationship. Finding ways to integrate faculty and private life is important. How will it impact the workplace? Students juggling add an addition toobligations from faculty and residential could expertise larger challenges in hanging a balance. In these cases, it's even a lot crucial that you simply square measure adept at getting to totally different roles and setting priorities. Succeeding as a Graduate or graduate school Student Succeeding in graduate or graduate school means that over merely doing well in your work. A lot of what you may learn throughout your school years won't return from categories however rather through activities like analysis, clinical work, internships, attending conferences, serving on division and university committees, making ready papers for publication, and change of integrity skilled organizations. Self-motivation, self-discipline, time management, and therefore the ability to grade square measure all essential ingredients to graduate or graduate school success. The subsequent tips will assist you to develop what you may get to reach graduate or graduate school and on the far side. Manage it slow Time Management could be a key element to educational and skilled success. it's a vital ability that may assist you to concentrate your efforts on what's most vital. Plan your schedule Make a weekly to-do list Prioritize your work Break big tasks into their smaller parts Set goals and deadlines for comes Avoid disposition Honestly assess the number of time you waste Beware of an excessive amount of stress Stress keeps America targeted and conscious of all the items that require to be done. It will encourage you to check more durable and complete assignments and comes on time. however once your stress level becomes over a noteworthy tool, or once pressures square measure too intense or last too long, you will be in stress overload. Signs of Stress Overload Anxiety or panic attacks A feeling of being perpetually pressured, hassled, and quick Irritability and moodiness Physical symptoms like abdomen issues, headaches, or maybe pain Allergic reactions, like skin disorder or asthma attack Problems sleeping Drinking an excessive amount of, smoking, overeating, or mistreatment medication Sadness or depression Ways to alleviate Stress Exercise. Regular exercise is one of the most effective ways to keep stress levels in check. Learn ways to relax your body through meditation, massage, and respiration exercises. Increase your calciferol. Take short walks within the sun. Studies show that calciferol will increase a positive and targeted mood. Laugh. Practice positive self-talk. Adopt a mantra like “this too shall pass” or “I will handle this.” Create an Associate in Nursing assets column that features all of the items that bring you joy. Talk to a follower or dearest. Make the most effective out of nerve-wracking circumstances – be optimistic – your outlook, attitude, and thoughts influence the manner you see things. Ask for assistance. those who have a robust network of family and friends manage stress higher. Strive to be a high soul not a compulsive Perfectionism refers to a group of unsuccessful thoughts and behaviors aimed toward reaching unrealistically high goals. it's supported perceived standards of excellence and infrequently oil-fired by the necessity for others’ approval. Contrary to the perfectionist’s belief that it's solely through giving 100% to each project, assignment, or cause that they'll realize success, studies have shown that compulsive attitudes truly interfere successfully by leading to: Low vanity Anxiety Depression Guilt Rigidity Lack of motivation Procrastination Obsessive/compulsive behaviors Eating disorders Relationship issues There's nothing wrong with trying to try to do the most effectively you can; the key's in knowing your limitations. you'll be a high soul while not being compulsive through active the subsequent behaviors: Set standards that square measure high however possible. Enjoy the method, not simply the result. Monitor your positive and negative thoughts. View mistakes as opportunities for growth and learning. React completely to constructive feedback. Maintain a healthy style Your physical and emotional well-being plays a serious role in your educational, skilled, and private success. Take time to determine and maintain a full life and sophisticated well-being. Exercise and sleep often. Eat healthfully. Make time for yourself. Enjoy and play with family. Managing the conflicting demands of college, work, and family See more:Top Scholarships for Literature Students
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8 Ways How Students Can Protect Money From Online Scammers
We live in unpredictable and insecure times specifically due to being exposed to so many different social mediums and websites that are full of ads and scams. The number of cyber-attacks and hackings has increased in the last year by substantial numbers. In particular, the number of college scams has also increased. College students are at the beginning of their lives and are just figuring out their future. They’re generally more susceptible to online college scams. Students already have so much on their plate like figuring out accommodation, their college tuition, etc. They don’t need the added stress of online scams. It’s not just college students that are in danger of being scammed online and losing money, so how do you deal with online scammers and how do you protect yourself against scammers? 8 Ways How Students Can Avoid Online Scammers 1.Tackle Online College Scams for Financial Aid and Scholarships Finding the right scholarship or financial aid is a stressful exercise and that is why many fall prey to scams related to these. Consultants may charge you an outrageous amount of money to fill your form or may make an offer that requires your bank account details that they can use for future scams. Beware of such websites and requests. Keep track of all the scholarships you are applying to and always find official websites to look for your financial aid. Never give out personal information on the web or call. 2.Avoid College Scams Based on Employment Being in college means you are one step closer to being independent and earning for yourself. And what is better than a job offer that lands in your email and pays well? This is one of the most basic online college scams. You can have people reaching out to offer scam jobs that lead you nowhere. They will call to get your personal information and then use it for a scam later on. Beware of shady websites and email addresses asking for your financial details. 3.Use a VPN When Using Public Networks As a student you may be in the frequent habit of using public Wi-Fi. This is the most insecure thing you can do. This will expose your laptop to malware and hacks easily. You should always use a VPN that connects to a US VPN server which will route all traffic interacting with your machine to a remote server before getting in touch with you. You can try out the VeePN VPN and opt for a free trial to see the benefits. Public Wi-Fi can also be a cam in itself. It can ask for your personal information that can be used in online college scams. 4.Stay Away from Credit Card Scams College students can become easy victims to credit card scams. Many scammers can disguise themselves as credit card companies in order to steal your data for later use. These scammers can even indulge in identity theft and they can easily access your personal information from other channels. It is important that you do a background check for everyone that asks for your personal and financial information. You can never be too careful with money. 5.Be Wary of Connection Requests from Fake People We all know at least one friend that loves indulging in creating fake profiles to troll others but there are serious scammers out there that orchestrate full blown online college scams by creating fake profiles and impersonating people. Beware of such people and before you accept a request from such a person, please take a look at the profile and how long ago it was created. Is there any personal or authentic content shared on the profile? Does the person have genuine friends online and engagement with his posts and comments? Do not ever give out your personal information on social media and use a VPN server location to connect to social networks. 6.Always Shred Sensitive Documents Being a new college student means a lot of documentation that has crucial personal information on it. You should never leave these lying around the dorm room or a cafe. Always keep them in a secure place or get rid of them by shredding them if you don’t need them anymore. You will be surprised how this data can be used in an online college scam with you as the obvious victim. The other option is to carefully scan each document and save the electronic copy in a safe online vault. This copy can be printed later if needed. 7.Be Wary of Apartment Scams Getting out of college may mean a new job and the ability to get a new apartment. Scamming real estate agents can use apartment listings to get your attention and get your personal information. If a listing looks outrageously unrealistic. It probably is. You need to do your research before you buy into such schemes. Only trust authentic and well-known real estate websites and agents for your housing needs. 8. Avoid Oversharing in General Many online college scams find their foundation in the victim talking loosely about their assets and personal information. Whether you are in a bar or with friends at a party. Never talk to people that you don’t trust with your life about your banking information or any such data that can be used against you. Tips to Avoid Losing Money in College Scams Do not share your personal information with unknown people Research companies and individuals before providing detailed personal information for credit cards, job applications and housing. Do not access private accounts on a Public Wi-Fi without using a VPN for a secure connection. Make sure you add that extra layer of protection on your social media and email accounts. Online scams are no joke. They are real and responsible for many college students losing their savings and hard-earned money. It is important to always use a VPN when you are browsing the internet to be safe from hackers getting your information. You also need to make sure you leave no stone unturned when it comes to hiding your personal information. Remember, you cannot trust everyone with your bank account information or any other information. Keep these things very private and away from prying eyes. Be wary of people indulging you in conversations that lead you to divulge such information easily.
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