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Emerging evidence indicates JAK inhibitors could be a valuable alternative for managing checkpoint inhibitor–induced immune toxicities, especially in difficult-to-treat cases.  

Researchers conducted a retrospective study published in June 2025 issue of Rheumatology to describe the role of JAK inhibitors in managing immune-mediated adverse events (AEs), based on a review of published case reports.  

They searched PubMed, EMBASE, and MEDLINE from inception to 25 May 2025 for case reports and case series on JAK inhibitors used to manage checkpoint inhibitor–induced immune-related AEs. The analysis included 5 EMA–licensed JAK inhibitors [tofacitinib, baricitinib, upadacitinib, filgotinib, and ruxolitinib] and peficitinib. All 11 checkpoint inhibitors approved by the FDA were also considered.  

The results showed that published case reports, case series, and cohort data included 104 individuals. Most received tofacitinib [82%]. Pembrolizumab monotherapy was the most frequent immune checkpoint inhibitor. Lung cancer accounted for 20%, gastric cancer 17%, and metastatic melanoma 16%. The JAK inhibitors were mainly used to manage myocarditis [70%], followed by myositis [33%] and hepatitis [24%]. Tumor progression occurred in 38%, while 14% remained in remission. Cancer-related mortality was reported in 4% due to the progression of cancer.  

Investigators concluded that JAK inhibitors showed potential effectiveness in treating immune checkpoint inhibitor–related toxicities, especially in cases unresponsive to prior cytokine-targeted therapies. 

Source: academic.oup.com/rheumatology/advance-article-abstract/doi/10.1093/rheumatology/keaf356/8178594