Brand Name: Xeljanz
Generic Name: Tofacitinib
Manufacturer: Pfizer
Dosage Form: Tablet
Strength: 5mg, 10mg, 11mg, and 22mg.
Composition: Tofacitinib
Packaging: 60 tablets
Indication: Rheumatology
Storage: Store at room temperature
Overview
Xeljanz (Tofacitinib) tablet is used in the treatment of Rheumatoid arthritis. It belongs to a class of medications known as immunomodulators. This medicine works by blocking the action of the enzyme, Janus kinase. It helps to decrease joint damage in rheumatoid arthritis. It is important to take Xeljanz tablets as prescribed by your doctor. It is advisable not to change your regular dosing schedule without taking suggestions from your doctor. The recommended dose of Xeljanz medicine is decided by a doctor according to your previous medical condition and response to the treatment. If you experience any signs and symptoms while receiving this medicine, inform your doctor immediately.
Pharmacodynamics
Tofacitinib targets inflammation present in rheumatoid arthritis by inhibiting the Janus kinases involved in the inflammatory response pathway. Treatment with Tofacitinib was associated with dose-dependent increases in B cell counts. Changes in circulating T-lymphocyte counts and T-lymphocyte subsets (CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+) were small and inconsistent. After treatment with Tofacitinib in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, rapid decreases in serum C-reactive protein (CRP) were observed and maintained throughout dosing.
Usage
This medicine is used to treat certain types of arthritis (Psoriatic Arthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and polyarticular course juvenile idiopathic arthritis-pcJIA). Xeljanz tablets also help to block a certain enzyme in the body that affects the immune system. Take this tablet orally once a day with or without food. Do not take Xeljanz tablets in the wrong way as it may lead to some severe side effects. Regular monitoring of blood cell count, liver function, kidney function, and cholesterol levels is required during treatment with this medicine. Do not use Xeljanz (Tofacitinib) medicine if you are pregnant.
Interactions
Xeljanz tablets can interact with other medications and it may increase the risk for side effects. Don’t forget to disclose and discuss your previous medical history with the doctor.
Medicine Interactions
- Adalimumab
- Cisplatin
- Etoposide
- Fluconazole
- Lonafarnib
- Mitotane
Disease Interactions
- Hepatitis B
- Viral reactivation
- Tuberculosis
- Infections
- Renal disease
- Hepatic Impairment
Alcohol Interaction
- Interaction with alcohol is unknown. Please consult your doctor before consuming alcohol.
Contraindications
- Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to Tofacitinib.
- Xeljanz (Tofacitinib) medicine is not recommended in patients known to be hypersensitive.
Side effects
This medicine may cause some major and minor side effects. Discuss the risks and benefits of the Xeljanz tablets with the doctor before starting the treatment.
Common side effects
- Bladder pain
- Irregular heartbeat
- Bloating
- Diarrhea
- Chills
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Nausea
- Unusual tiredness
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Weight loss
- Chest pain
- Ear congestion
- Back pain
- Inflammation of the throat and the nasal passage
- Upper respiratory tract infection
- Allergic reaction
- Unusual weakness
- Shortness of breath
- Muscle pain
- Pounding in the ears
- Swollen glands
- Decreased urination
- Fainting
- Rash
- Vomiting
- Sunken eyes
- Tingling of the hands or feet
Note – immediately contact your health care provider if any side effects occur.
Side effects
This medicine may cause some major and minor side effects. Discuss the risks and benefits of the Xeljanz tablets with the doctor before starting the treatment.
Common side effects
- Bladder pain
- Irregular heartbeat
- Bloating
- Diarrhea
- Chills
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Nausea
- Unusual tiredness
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Weight loss
- Chest pain
- Ear congestion
- Back pain
- Inflammation of the throat and the nasal passage
- Upper respiratory tract infection
- Allergic reaction
- Unusual weakness
- Shortness of breath
- Muscle pain
- Pounding in the ears
- Swollen glands
- Decreased urination
- Fainting
- Rash
- Vomiting
- Sunken eyes
- Tingling of the hands or feet
Note – immediately contact your health care provider if any side effects occur.
Dosage
Take this medicine as prescribed by your doctor. Do not stop or skip your regular dosing schedule.
Missed Dose
- It is advisable not to miss a dose. If you miss a scheduled dose of Xeljanz tablets, contact your doctor immediately.
Overdose
- In case of an overdose of Xeljanz tablets, the doctor will provide emergency medical treatment.
Warnings
Before starting treatment with Xeljanz medicine, please inform your doctor about your previous medical history. If you experience any signs and symptoms while receiving this medication, do not ignore those symptoms because it may lead to higher risk.
- Contraception
- Use suitable methods of contraception to prevent pregnancy while taking Xeljanz medicine.
- Children and adolescents
- Xeljanz Tablets are not recommended for use in children under 18 years of age.
Warnings For Female
- Pregnancy
- Do not use Xeljanz medicine if you are planning to become pregnant. Avoid this medication at the time of pregnancy.
- Breastfeeding
- This medicine is not recommended in breastfeeding unless it is required. Please consult with your doctor before starting treatment with Xeljanz (Tofacitinib).
Precautions
- This medicine may affect the immune system and may increase the risk of developing infections.
- Xeljanz tablets may increase the levels of cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol.
- Inform your doctor if you experience any side effects like – dizziness, nausea, abdominal pain, increased appetite, and vomiting.
- Close monitoring of liver and kidney function is required during treatment with this medicine.
- This medicine may increase the risk of non-melanoma skin cancer.
Cautions
- Do not drive or operate heavy machinery.
- Do not crush or break the tablet.
- Not safe for pregnant women.
- Do not breastfeed while receiving this medication.
