Xeljanz®
Drug class
- Non-biologic small molecule
- Non-biologic small molecule - JAK inhibitor
Generic name
Tofacitinib
Safety
Efficacy
Convenience
Box warning
Tofacitinib increases the risk of serious infections, cancers like lung cancer and lymphoma, heart attacks, strokes, and blood clots. Life-threatening infections like tuberculosis can occur, especially in older adults. Doctors should carefully check patients for infections and monitor heart health during treatment.
Indications
Approved for moderate to severe ulcerative colitis.
How it works
Regulates an overactive immune system, to reduce inflammation and symptoms.
Drug interactions
Immunosuppressive medications (e.g., azathioprine, tacrolimus, cyclosporine) due to the risk of additive immunosuppression.
Pre-treatment screening tests
Complete blood count, cholesterol levels, hepatic (liver) function tests, hemoglobin (protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen) test, signs and symptoms of infection.
Tests during screening
Lymphocyte count, neutrophil/platelet counts, hemoglobin (protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen), cholesterol levels, liver function tests; viral hepatitis, signs/symptoms of infections (including tuberculosis) during and after therapy; abdominal symptoms; skin examinations; heart rate and blood pressure.
Payment options
https://www.xeljanz.com/savings-and-support/Route of administration
Frequency
1 or 2 times a day depending on formulation
Side effects
Nasal congestion, sore throat, runny nose (nasopharyngitis), high cholesterol levels, headache, upper respiratory tract infections (common cold, sinus infections), rash, diarrhea (loose stools), and shingles.
Contraindications
No contraindications listed in the manufacturer's U.S. labeling.
Safety information
Signs of an allergic reaction, like face swelling, fainting, dizziness, hives, shortness of breath. Signs of an infection like fever, chills, cough, liver problems like urine, new lump or skin growth, sudden change in eyesight. Symptoms of a heart attack, stroke, or blood clot.