Uses
Tofacitinib is used alone or with other medications (such as methotrexate) to treat moderate-to-severe forms of rheumatoid arthritis. It helps to decrease pain/tenderness/swelling in the joints.
How to use Xeljanz
Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start taking tofacitinib and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually once or twice daily.
The dosage is based on your medical condition, response to treatment, laboratory tests, and other medications you may be taking. Be sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of serious side effects will increase.
Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. Remember to take it at the same time(s) each day.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.
Side Effects
See also Warning section.Headache or diarrhea may occur. If either of these effects persists or worsens, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Many people using this medication have serious side effects. However, your doctor has prescribed this drug because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Careful monitoring by your doctor may decrease your risk.Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: unusual tiredness, fast heartbeat, shortness of breath, severe stomach/abdominal pain, signs of liver disease (such as dark urine, yellowing eyes/skin, persistent nausea/vomiting).Tell your doctor right away if you have any signs of infection, including: fever, chills, persistent sore throat, persistent cough, night sweats, trouble breathing, painful/frequent urination, warm/red/painful skin.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Precautions
Before taking tofacitinib, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: liver disease (such as hepatitis B or C), kidney disease, blood/bone marrow disorders (such as anemia, low lymphocyte/neutrophil count), past/recent/current infections (such as tuberculosis, herpes zoster, HIV infection), cancer, stomach/intestinal disorders (such as ulcers, diverticulitis).Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).Do not have immunizations/vaccinations without the consent of your doctor. Avoid contact with people who have recently received live vaccines (such as flu vaccine inhaled through the nose). Wash your hands well to prevent the spread of infections.Older adults may be at greater risk for infections while using this drug.During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.