What is a Generic Drug?
A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Litfulo (Ritlecitinib)
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Product Details
Description
Litfulo (Ritlecitinib) is a medication used to treat severe alopecia areata, a condition in which the immune system causes hair loss. It works by blocking certain proteins that contribute to this hair loss. The medication is available in capsule form, designed for oral use. This medication is recommended for adults and teenagers aged 12 and older. By targeting specific proteins, it can help improve hair growth for those affected by this condition.
Directions
Litfulo is taken orally as a capsule. The standard dosage is 50 mg once daily, which can be taken with or without food. Swallow the capsules whole and avoid crushing, splitting, or chewing them. If a dose is missed and it’s more than eight hours until the next scheduled dose, take the missed dose as soon as possible. Otherwise, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular dosing schedule.
Ingredients
Litfulo contains the active ingredient Ritlecitinib.
Contraindications
Avoid taking or using this medication if any of the following apply:
- Known hypersensitivity to Ritlecitinib
- Allergic reaction to any excipients in the medication
Cautions
- Before starting treatment with Litfulo, be sure to inform your healthcare provider about the following:
- Any medical conditions you currently have
- Any allergies
- All medications you are currently taking
- Whether you are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Do not use Litfulo if you have a serious, active infection. If you have a history of frequent infections or have been exposed to tuberculosis (TB), talk to your doctor before starting Litfulo. Watch for signs like fever or unusual symptoms and seek medical help right away.
- Before starting Litfulo, you should be tested for tuberculosis. If you have TB, you need to begin TB treatment before using Litfulo. Your doctor will keep a close eye on you for any TB symptoms during your treatment.
- Litfulo can cause viruses like shingles to become active again. If you develop shingles or other viral infections while taking Litfulo, you may need to stop the medication and get appropriate treatment.
- Using Litfulo can increase the risk of certain cancers, including skin cancer and lymphoma. Regular skin checks and monitoring for any unusual symptoms are important while you are on this medication.
- Litfulo may raise your risk of serious heart problems like heart attacks or strokes, particularly if you are older or have existing heart conditions. Pay attention to symptoms such as chest pain or shortness of breath and seek medical help immediately if they occur.
- There is an increased risk of blood clots in your veins or arteries when taking Litfulo. If you experience sudden pain, swelling, or difficulty breathing, stop taking Litfulo and get emergency medical attention right away.
- Litfulo can lower your white blood cells and platelets, weakening your immune system and increasing your risk of bleeding. Your doctor will regularly check your blood counts during treatment to ensure your safety.
- Litfulo may cause your liver enzymes to rise, indicating potential liver stress or damage. If you feel unusually tired, nauseous, or notice yellowing of your skin or eyes, contact your doctor right away.
- The medication can increase muscle enzyme levels, which might suggest muscle damage. Your doctor will monitor these levels and may adjust your dose if necessary to prevent any issues.
- Avoid live vaccines while taking Litfulo. Make sure you are up to date on all your vaccinations before starting treatment and discuss any planned vaccines with your doctor to ensure they are safe for you.
Side Effects
Common Litfulo side effects may include headaches, diarrhea, and acne. You might also experience skin reactions such as rash, hives, eczema, or inflamed hair follicles (folliculitis). Fever, dizziness, and mouth sores with redness and swelling of the mouth lining are also possible. Some people report shingles (herpes zoster) and decreased red blood cell counts, which can lead to symptoms like fatigue. These side effects are usually mild and may improve as your body adjusts to the medication.
Litfulo may lead to serious side effects that require immediate medical attention. It may increase your risk of severe infections by lowering your immune system's ability to fight them. Signs of infection include fever, chills, persistent cough, shortness of breath, unexplained weight loss, or feeling very tired. There's also an increased risk of certain cancers, blood clots in the legs or lungs, and major cardiovascular events like heart attack or stroke, especially in people over 50 with heart disease risk factors or who smoke or have smoked in the past. Allergic reactions such as hives, swelling of the face, lips, or throat, trouble breathing, or feeling faint are possible. If you experience serious symptoms, stop taking Litfulo and seek emergency medical help immediately.
References
- Litfulo (Ritlecitinib) Product Monograph. New York, NY: Pfizer; 2023.
- Litfulo (Ritlecitinib) Drug Label Information. New York, NY: Pfizer; 2024.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.Product Code : 14950
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