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Tofacitinib

Uses

Tofacitinib is used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.

How it Works

How Tofacitinib works Tofacitinib is a Janus kinase inhibitor. It functions by blocking the action of the enzyme Janus kinase. This action reduces inflammation and joint damage in rheumatoid arthritis.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Tofacitinib include headache, diarrhea, high blood pressure, rash, pneumonia, bronchitis (inflammation of the airways), tuberculosis, nasopharyngitis (inflammation of the throat and nasal passages), urinary tract infection, cellulitis, herpes zoster, diverticulitis, appendicitis, anemia (low number of red blood cells), cough, abdominal pain, vomiting, nausea, stomach inflammation, dyspepsia, joint pain, fever, peripheral edema, and fatigue.

Expert Advice

  • Tofacitinib is used alone or in combination with other medications for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis that has not improved with other anti-rheumatic drugs.
  • It may take 3 to 6 months to experience the maximum effect of this medication.
  • Continue taking it as prescribed.
  • Your doctor may conduct regular blood tests to monitor:
    • Liver function
    • Kidney function
    • Blood counts
    • Cholesterol levels
  • Tofacitinib can make it somewhat more difficult for individuals to fight off infections.
  • Inform your doctor if you experience symptoms of an infection, such as:
    • Fever
    • Chills
    • Cough
    • Muscle aches
  • Your doctor may perform a TB (tuberculosis) skin test and a chest X-ray before starting treatment with this medication.
  • Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to conceive, or breastfeeding.

Other Combinations

Frequently asked questions

Tofacitinib may elevate the risk of certain cancers, including lymphoma and skin cancers, by affecting the immune system. Inform your doctor if you have a history of cancer.
Tofacitinib is approved for moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis, particularly when previous treatments have failed or are unsuitable. It can be used alone or with other medications, such as methotrexate.
Tofacitinib can compromise your immune system, increasing the risk of serious infections, including tuberculosis and systemic fungal, bacterial, or viral infections, which can be life-threatening. Hospital treatment may be necessary for severe infections.
Inform your doctor about any liver problems before starting Tofacitinib, as it may increase liver enzyme levels. While it can be prescribed for mild to moderate liver impairment, it is not suitable for those with severe liver impairment.
Tofacitinib typically takes 2 to 8 weeks to show initial improvement, with maximum effects occurring in 3 to 6 months.
No, Tofacitinib should not be taken with tocilizumab, as both affect the immune system and can heighten the risk of infections and complications.
Blood tests may be required before and during Tofacitinib treatment to check for anemia, low white blood cell count, high cholesterol, and liver enzyme levels. Additionally, screening for tuberculosis may be recommended due to the risk of exacerbating existing infections.
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