Can Rinvoq (upadacitinib) cause acne?
Rinvoq can cause skin side effects, and acne is among the skin reactions reported with Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors. If you notice new pimples, clogged pores, or worsening acne after starting Rinvoq, it’s reasonable to consider the medication as a possible contributor.
What kinds of skin problems are reported with Rinvoq?
In addition to acne-like breakouts, Rinvoq has been associated with other dermatologic effects such as rashes and changes in skin appearance. If your symptoms are mainly acne-type lesions (comedones, inflamed pimples) and begin or worsen soon after starting or increasing the dose, that timing supports a medication link.
When should you contact a clinician urgently?
Seek urgent medical care if you develop signs of a serious skin reaction (rapidly spreading rash, blistering/peeling skin, fever, or mouth/eye involvement), or if you suspect a skin infection that is worsening quickly (marked redness, warmth, swelling, pus, or severe pain).
What can you do if acne develops while on Rinvoq?
Discuss your symptoms with your prescriber before stopping Rinvoq. They may:
- adjust the dose or pause treatment if needed,
- recommend an appropriate acne regimen (topical therapies are common),
- check for other causes of breakout (new skincare products, steroids, hormonal changes, infections).
If you want, tell me when your acne started relative to Rinvoq and whether it’s mild (occasional pimples) or more severe (painful cysts), and I can help you think through likely causes and what to ask your clinician.