Tofacitinib is an immunosuppressant that depresses the immune system. It belongs to the inhibitors of janus kinases.
Release form: film-coated tablets, 5 mg and 10 mg.
Indications
Tofacitinib is used to treat various diseases.:
- Rheumatoid arthritis: for adults with moderate to severe arthritis who do not respond to standard medications.
- Psoriatic arthritis: for patients with active arthritis who do not respond to conventional therapy. Ankylosing spondylitis**: for adults with spinal inflammation who do not respond to standard treatment.
- Plaque psoriasis: for adults with severe psoriasis when systemic medications or phototherapy are indicated.
- Ulcerative colitis: for the induction and maintenance of remission in adults with severe colitis who do not respond to glucocorticoids or other medications.
- Juvenile idiopathic arthritis: for children over 2 years of age with active polyarticular arthritis.
Contraindications
Do not apply when:
- Allergies to tofacitinib.
- Severe liver diseases.
- Hepatitis B and/or C viruses.
- Severe or active infections.
- Lactose intolerance or lactase deficiency.
- Pregnancy (safety has not been studied).
- Breastfeeding.
- Under the age of 18.
Dosage and application
The drug is taken orally, regardless of food. The dosage depends on the disease:
- Rheumatoid, psoriatic and ankylosing arthritis: 5 mg twice daily. The doctor can change the dosage.
- Plaque psoriasis: 10 mg twice daily.
- Ulcerative colitis: 10 mg twice daily for 8 weeks, followed by dose adjustment.
The duration of treatment is determined by the doctor. Do not stop taking it without consultation.
Side effects
Possible side effects:
- Fever, chills, sweating.
- Stomach or abdominal pain.
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing.
- Dizziness.
- Swelling of the face.