All living well guides
Medication safety
Biologics and Infection Safety
Biologics and JAK inhibitors are very effective and generally safe, with a manageable increase in infection risk.
Video lesson
Why it matters
These medicines tone down parts of the immune system that also fight infection, so infections can start faster and look milder.
What you can do
Get screened for TB and hepatitis B before starting. Keep vaccines up to date. Wash hands, handle food safely and treat cuts promptly. Pause your dose and call your team if you have a fever or a significant infection.
Call your care team if
You have a fever over 100.4°F, a cough that won’t settle, a painful red skin patch, burning urination or a shingles rash.
At a glance
Topic
Medication safety
Reviewed by Farhan Tahir, MD, FACR
Questions about your own care?
Book an in-person or telehealth consultation with Dr. Tahir.
For education only. Don’t start, stop or change a medicine without talking to your care team.