Description
What is Xeljanz?
Xeljanz (tofacitinib) is a drug used to treat autoimmune disorders like psoriatic arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ulcerative colitis.
How does it work?
Xeljanz works by reducing your body's ability to mount an immune response.
How is it supplied?
You can buy Xeljanz online as 5mg or 10mg tablets. You can also get Xeljanz as 11mg or 22mg extended-release tablets.
How should I store it?
Store your Xeljanz at room temperature and keep it out of reach of children.
Directions
Should I take Xeljanz with food?
- You can take Xeljanz with or without food.
Are there any special instructions?
- Swallow your Xeljanz tablets whole. Do not crush or chew them.
- To switch from immediate-release tablets to extended-release tablets:
- Take your second immediate-release tablet of the day, then
- Start your next day with an extended-release tablet
What is the usual dose?
- The usual dosages for Xeljanz are as follows:
- Psoriatic Arthritis
- Immediate-release tablets β Take 5mg by mouth twice daily
- Extended-release tablets β Take 11mg by mouth once daily
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Immediate-release tablets β Take 5mg by mouth twice daily
- Extended-release tablets β Take 11mg by mouth once daily
- Ulcerative Colitis
- Immediate-release tablets
- Initial dose β Take 10mg by mouth twice daily for eight weeks, then transition to the maintenance dose. If your therapeutic response is not adequate after eight weeks, continue taking 10mg twice daily for another eight weeks. Stop taking Xeljanz if you do not achieve an adequate response after 16 weeks.
- Maintenance dose β Take 5mg by mouth twice daily. Your doctor might periodically increase your dose to 10mg twice daily, depending on how well your therapy is going.
- Extended-release tablets
- Initial dose β Take 22mg by mouth once daily for eight weeks, then transition to the maintenance dose. If your therapeutic response is not adequate after eight weeks, continue taking 22mg daily for an additional eight weeks. Stop taking Xeljanz if you do not achieve an adequate response after 16 weeks.
- Maintenance dose β Take 11mg once daily. Your doctor might periodically increase your dose to 22mg once daily, depending on how well your therapy is going.
Ingredients
What is the active ingredient in Xeljanz?
- The active ingredient in Xeljanz is tofacitinib.
What are the inactive ingredients?
Fact Table |
Formula |
C16H20N6O |
License |
AU, EU EMA, US FDA |
Bioavailability |
74% |
Legal status |
RX Only |
Chemical Name |
Tofacitinib |
Elimination half-life |
3 hours |
Dosage (Strength) |
5mg (56 Tablets), 10mg (60 Tablets) |
Pregnancy |
Consult a doctor |
Brands |
Xeljanz |
Protein binding |
40% |
PubChem CID |
9926791 |
MedlinePlus |
a613025 |
ChEBI |
71200 |
ATC code |
J05AX25 |
DrugBank |
DB13997 |
KEGG |
D11021 |
Routes of administration |
By mouth (tablets) |
Cautions
Who should avoid taking Xeljanz?
- Do not take Xeljanz if you have a known allergy to any of the ingredients.
- Avoid Xeljanz if you are at an increased risk of blood clots.
What are the risks?
- Xeljanz has a black box warning regarding serious infections, malignancy, and thrombosis. Review the full warning in the package insert and discuss your risks with your doctor.
- You should not receive live vaccinations while using Xeljanz. Discuss alternative vaccine options with your doctor or pharmacist.
- Xeljanz can increase your risk of skin cancer.
- Xeljanz can increase your blood lipid levels.
- Xeljanz can increase your risk of gastrointestinal perforation.
- Xeljanz can increase your risk of infection.
- Xeljanz can cause a decrease in your white blood cell count. Your doctor should monitor your blood before you start using Xeljanz and periodically while you are in treatment.
- Xeljanz can damage your liver. Discuss your risk with your doctor.
- Tell your doctor if you have a history of tuberculosis.
- Tell your doctor if you have ever had hepatitis B. infection.
- If you are being treated for rheumatoid arthritis, you could have an increased risk of pulmonary embolism. Discuss your risk with your physician.
Side Effects
What are the common side effects of Xeljanz?
- Increased HDL and LDL levels
- Headache
- Urinary tract infection
- Nasopharyngitis
- Upper respiratory infection
What are the serious side effects?
- Skin cancer
- Gastrointestinal perforation
- Anemia
- Decreased lymphocyte count
- Deep vein thrombosis
- Neutropenia
- Thrombosis
- Liver injury
- Infectious disease
- Lymphoproliferative disorder following transplantation
- Opportunistic infection
- Tuberculosis
- Epstein Barr virus
- Pulmonary embolism
Other Considerations
- Compare the Xeljanz cost at Canada Pharmacy to your local drug store.
Frequently Asked Questions about Xeljanz (Tofacitinib)
What is Xeljanz (Tofacitinib) used for?
Xeljanz is prescribed to treat rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ulcerative colitis by inhibiting specific enzymes that contribute to inflammation.
How does Xeljanz work?
Xeljanz works by targeting and inhibiting Janus kinase enzymes, reducing inflammation and modifying the immune response in conditions like arthritis and ulcerative colitis.
What are the common side effects of Xeljanz?
Common side effects may include upper respiratory tract infections, headache, and high blood pressure. Consult your doctor for a complete list and guidance.
Can Xeljanz be used in combination with other medications?
Your healthcare provider may prescribe Xeljanz alone or in combination with other medications based on your specific medical condition. Always follow your doctor's instructions.
Is Xeljanz safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?
Consult your healthcare provider before using Xeljanz if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Individual circumstances may vary.
How long does it take for Xeljanz to show results?
The time it takes for Xeljanz to show results can vary. Your healthcare provider will monitor your progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed.
Can Xeljanz be taken with food?
Xeljanz can be taken with or without food. Follow your doctor's recommendations regarding the best way to take your medication.
Are there any dietary restrictions while on Xeljanz?
While there are no specific dietary restrictions, maintaining a healthy and balanced diet is important for overall well-being. Discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Xeljanz?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, skip the missed dose if it's almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not double up to make up for a missed dose.
Can Xeljanz be used for conditions other than arthritis and ulcerative colitis?
Xeljanz is primarily approved for rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ulcerative colitis. Off-label use should only be considered under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
About Dr. Alex Covey (Page Author)
Alex Covey studies chemistry and microbiology as an undergraduate before moving on to pharmacy school and completing his Pharm D. His professional focus is on early phase clinical research but also has background experience in inpatient hospital, community pharmacy, and specialty compounding. Read More....
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 : 13253