Vol. 6 No. 3 (2026)
Reimbursement Recommendations

Upadacitinib (Rinvoq)

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Published March 17, 2026

Key Messages

  • Canada’s Drug Agency (CDA-AMC) recommends that Rinvoq be reimbursed by public drug plans for the treatment of adult patients with giant cell arteritis (GCA) if certain conditions are met. Rinvoq is used in combination with a tapering course of corticosteroids and as monotherapy following discontinuation of corticosteroids.
  • Rinvoq should only be covered to treat adult patients with active and clinically stable, new-onset, or relapsing GCA who are currently on corticosteroids with the intention to taper.
  • Rinvoq should only be reimbursed if prescribed by, or in consultation with, a rheumatologist or other physician experienced in the management of GCA. It should not be combined with other advanced therapies for GCA, and the total treatment cost of Rinvoq should be negotiated so that it does not exceed that of tocilizumab for the treatment of adult patients with GCA.