Tofacitinib

This page provides detailed information on tofacitinib, covering its approved uses, recommended dosage and administration, mode of action, associated brand names and strengths, cautions, and typical adverse reactions.

Context and Approval Date

On November 21, 2012, the FDA approved tofacitinib, a monoclonal antibody (a protein that attaches to a specific target), for medical use.

Mechanism of Action of Enzalutamide

Janus kinase inhibitors classify Tofacitinib Tablet as a disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug (DMARD). Janus kinase, a form of tyrosine kinase, plays a crucial role in cytokine receptor signaling. Tofacitinib works by stopping Janus kinases from doing their job. This stops the transcription of genes that control cell growth and differentiation. Typically, tofacitinib tablets are prescribed alongside other medications, such as methotrexate.

All Substitutes

Product Packaging Size Company Price
Jaknat 5mg Tablet 6 x 10 Tablets Natco Pharma INR 313
Tofajak 5mg tablet 60 Tablets CIPLA Ltd INR 1050
Tofatas 5mg tablet 3 x 10 Tablets Intas Pharmaceuticals INR 300
Jakura 60 Tablets Hetero Healthcare INR 1500
Jakura 3 x 10 Tablets Hetero Healthcare INR 383
Tofajak 3 x 10 Tablets CIPLA Ltd INR 220

Uses of Tofacitinib

Researchers developed tofacitinib tablets to treat various inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, ulcerative colitis, and juvenile psoriatic arthritis.

Tofacitinib administration guidelines and available dosage options

Tofacitinib comes in film-coated tablets with doses of 5mg and 10mg. For patients with rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, juvenile psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis, the recommended dose is 5mg twice daily. For those with ulcerative colitis, the recommended initial dose is 10mg twice daily for 8 weeks, followed by 5mg twice daily thereafter. If there is no improvement within 16 weeks, your healthcare provider may opt to discontinue tofacitinib treatment.

Information about tofacitinib

Rheumatoid arthritis patients get treatment with tofacitinib.

How tofacitinib works

Tofacitinib functions as a Janus kinase inhibitor, acting to impede the activity of the Janus kinase enzyme. This action leads to a reduction in inflammation and mitigates joint damage in cases of rheumatoid arthritis.

Common side effects of tofacitinib

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, Fatigue
1. Tofacitinib is used alone or in combination with other medicines for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, that did not improve with other anti-rheumatic drugs.
2. It may take 3 to 6 months to feel the maximum effect of this medication. Keep taking it as prescribed.
3. Your doctor may get regular blood tests done to monitor your liver function, kidney function, blood counts, or cholesterol levels.
4. Tofacitinib can make it a bit harder for people to fight off infections. Inform your doctor if you have symptoms of an infection such as fever, chills, cough, and muscle aches.
5. Your doctor may get TB (tuberculosis) skin test and a chest X-ray before starting treatment with this medication.
6. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to conceive, or breastfeeding.

Warning, Precautions, and Side Effects Associated with Tofacitinib

Warning

Take immediate medical attention if you encounter sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, upper back pain, swelling in the leg or arm, leg discomfort, redness or discoloration in the leg or arm, intense chest tightness, or sudden dizziness. Avoid using tofacitinib if you have allergies to any of its components or a medical history of tuberculosis, heart issues, hepatitis B, ulcers, intestinal inflammation, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, HIV, chronic lung disease, or skin cancer. Throughout this treatment, your physician may monitor your vital signs to prevent serious complications. Inform your healthcare provider if you are planning any dental or surgical procedures.

Precautions

Consult your health care provider for advice if you are pregnant, think you might be pregnant, are planning to have a baby, or are breastfeeding your baby. We do not recommend tofacitinib during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Discuss effective contraceptive methods with your healthcare provider, and consider using them for at least 4 weeks after the last dose of tofacitinib.

Side Effects

Common side effects that may come during treatment with Tofacitinib Tablet include lung infections, herpes, nasal and throat infections, flu, sinusitis, cystitis, sore throat, muscle issues, stomach discomfort, vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, indigestion, anemia, fever, fatigue, headaches, high blood pressure, cough, and rash. If you encounter persistent headaches, skin blisters, blood in your stool, chest tightness, wheezing, severe dizziness, lightheadedness, or swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat while undergoing this treatment, promptly inform your doctor.

Word of Advice

If you have received a diagnosis of lactose intolerance, contact your healthcare provider before taking this medicine. Check with your health care provider before receiving any vaccines, and inform them if you are taking any other medications or herbal supplements.

FAQ - Tofacitinib

1Is it safe for a woman of reproductive age to use a Tofacitinib tablet?
If you're a woman of reproductive age, tofacitinib is likely unsafe during pregnancy due to its potential to elevate the risk of infection. Consult with your healthcare provider regarding effective contraceptive options, and contemplate their use for a minimum of 4 weeks after the final dose of tofacitinib.
2Is it safe to undergo surgery during the treatment with Tofacitinib Tablet?
Studies have linked tofacitinib tablets to an increased risk of bleeding and bruising. Therefore, it is advised to seek guidance from your healthcare provider before undergoing surgery or dental procedures while on this treatment. Your doctor may advise temporarily.
3What medications or substances should be avoided while taking Tofacitinib tablets?
If you are taking antibiotics, antifungals, immunosuppressants, or corticosteroids, you should not take tofacitinib.
4What are the signs of serious infections?
Fever, chills, coughs, skin blisters, stomach aches, and persistent headaches are the signs of serious infections. Tell your doctor right away if you notice any of the symptoms.
5What are the common side effects of a tofacitinib tablet?
Lung infection, herpes, infections of the nose and throat, influenza, sinusitis, cystitis, sore throat, muscle problems, stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, indigestion, anemia, fever, tiredness, headache, high blood pressure, cough, and rash are some of the most common side effects associated with Tofacitinib treatment.
6How do you identify whether you are allergic to tofacitinib?
Chest tightness, wheezing, severe dizziness, lightheadedness, swelling of the lips, tongue, throat, and severe itching are some of the common symptoms that indicate that you are allergic to Tofacitinib Tablet.
7Who should not take a Tofacitinib tablet?
Tofacitinib Tablet is not recommended if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, allergic to tofacitinib or any other ingredients, or if you have been diagnosed with severe liver problems, bloodstream infection, or active tuberculosis.

Refrences

1. Pfizer Limited, Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC), [Revised on Mar 2022] [Accessed on 6th Sep 2022], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.7986.pdf
2. Matthew J. Sewell, Craig N. Burkhart, and Dean S. Morrell, Goodman & Gilman’s Pharmacological basis of Therapeutics, Dermatological Pharmacology, 13th Edition, 2018, 1271-1296.