tofajak (TOFACITINIB)
Introduction to tofajak
Tofajak, also known as Tofacitinib, is a medication primarily used to treat various joint and bowel conditions. It is particularly effective for adults and some children sufferi... See More
What is Tofajak?
Tofajak is a medicine that helps adults and some children with painful, swollen joints or bowel inflammation. It's used when other medicines haven't worked. It works by slowing down a part of the immune system that causes inflammation.
What is the usual dose of Tofajak?
Tofajak's usual adult dose is 5 milligrams twice a day. A higher dose isn't recommended for arthritis. If you have liver or kidney problems, or take certain other medicines, your doctor might need to adjust your dose. This information doesn't cover children.
How do I take Tofajak?
Tofajak can be taken with or without food, which means you can choose to take it at your convenience. For the immediate-release tablets, the typical dosing is 5 mg twice daily, while the extended-release version is taken as 11 mg once daily. It’s essential to swallow the extended-release tablets whole and not to crush, chew, or split them. There are no specific food restrictions while taking Tofajak, but it's always a good idea to follow your healthcare provider's advice for any dietary considerations.
For how long do I take Tofajak?
The typical duration of use for Tofajak varies based on the condition being treated. For rheumatoid arthritis, patients may be on Tofajak for long-term management, with studies showing median treatment durations of around 4.9 years. In clinical trials for ulcerative colitis, treatment can last up to 52 weeks or longer, depending on individual response. For conditions like alopecia areata, treatment duration in studies ranges from 2 to 18 months. Always follow your healthcare provider's recommendations for the appropriate duration based on your specific situation.
What is Tofajak used for?
Tofajak is a medicine used when other treatments haven't worked. It helps adults with several types of painful joint and bowel problems: severe arthritis (rheumatoid, psoriatic, and ankylosing spondylitis), and severe ulcerative colitis. It's also used for children over two with a specific type of severe arthritis (juvenile arthritis). The medicine is only given if a type of medicine called a TNF blocker didn't work first.
How long does it take for Tofajak to start working?
It's different for everyone. Some people feel better quickly, while others may take longer to notice a difference. The medicine's effects build up over time, so you might not feel the full benefit right away.
Is Tofajak effective?
Tofajak is a medicine that helps with several types of joint and bowel problems. Studies show it works well for some people with psoriatic arthritis, making them feel better and more active. It's also used for other conditions like ulcerative colitis and rheumatoid arthritis, especially when other medicines haven't worked. While it shows promise for ankylosing spondylitis, it hasn't been proven to stop joint damage in psoriatic arthritis.
How does one know if Tofajak is working?
The benefits of Tofajak are checked through clinical trials, where researchers study how well it works for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and ulcerative colitis. In these trials, patients are given either Tofajak or a placebo (a dummy treatment) to see how much their symptoms improve. They look at specific scores to measure improvement over time. Real-world studies also help confirm its effectiveness and safety in everyday use, showing how well it helps people manage their conditions.
How does Tofajak work?
Tofajak works by blocking specific enzymes called Janus kinases (JAKs) in the body. These enzymes are involved in sending signals from outside the cell to the inside, which helps control inflammation and the immune response. By inhibiting JAKs, Tofajak reduces the production of inflammatory substances that can cause conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and ulcerative colitis. This helps decrease inflammation and improves symptoms, allowing the body to function more normally without excessive immune activity.
Who should avoid taking Tofajak?
Tofajak is a medicine not suitable for people with severe liver disease or hepatitis B or C. Its effects on children aren't fully known except in certain cases of juvenile arthritis. Before starting Xeljanz, tell your doctor about any infections, smoking, cancer, heart issues, or blood clots you have. If you take too much, get immediate medical help.
Can I take Tofajak with vitamins or supplements?
Tofajak has notable interactions with certain vitamins and supplements. Specifically, while there are no significant interactions reported with Vitamin D3, Vitamin B12, and Vitamin B6, caution is advised when taking high doses of these vitamins alongside Tofajak. Additionally, St. John's Wort should be avoided as it can reduce the effectiveness of Tofajak by increasing its breakdown in the body.
Can I take Tofajak with other prescription drugs?
Tofajak is a medicine affected by other medicines you might also be taking. Some medicines, like ketoconazole and fluconazole, make your body keep more Tofajak, so you might need a lower dose to avoid problems. Other medicines, like rifampin, make your body get rid of Tofajak faster, meaning it might not work as well, so you shouldn't take them together. Taking Tofajak with other drugs that weaken your immune system, such as azathioprine, tacrolimus, or cyclosporine, raises your chances of getting sick because your body's defenses are weaker. It's important to talk to your doctor about all the medicines you're taking to make sure it's safe to take Tofajak.
Can Tofajak be taken safely while pregnant?
This medicine may harm a developing baby. Women who are pregnant or might become pregnant should talk to their doctor about the risks before taking this medicine. If you are pregnant or think you might be, tell your doctor right away.
Can Tofajak be taken safely while breastfeeding?
If you're taking Tofajak, don't breastfeed. The medicine can pass into your breast milk and increase the risk of serious infections for your baby. While there's little evidence of harm in a few cases, we don't know enough about the long-term effects on babies.
Is Tofajak safe for the elderly?
Older people are more likely to get infections when taking Tofajak. Some studies didn't have enough older patients to be sure if they reacted differently to the medicine than younger people. But, the studies did show that older people (65 and up) taking Tofajak got serious infections more often than younger people.
How should I store Tofajak?
Keep the medicine in its original bottle and box at room temperature, between 68°F and 77°F (or 20°C and 25°C). Use it within 2 months (60 days) of opening the bottle; throw away any leftover medicine after that. Make sure children can't reach it.
Does Tofajak make people tired or drowsy?
Fatigue and drowsiness are not frequently reported side effects of Tofajak. However, some patients might experience weakness or tiredness due to infections or other adverse effects. If fatigue persists or affects daily activities, consult your healthcare provider.
Does Tofajak cause stomach upset?
Common gastrointestinal side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, but these occur in less than 10% of patients. If you experience severe stomach upset, contact your doctor for advice on symptom management or potential dose adjustments.
Does Tofajak affect sleep?
Insomnia is occasionally reported but is not common (occurs in less than 10% of patients). If sleep disturbances occur, discuss them with your healthcare provider for potential remedies or adjustments.
Does Tofajak make it hard to think or concentrate?
Cognitive side effects like difficulty concentrating or memory issues are rare. However, dizziness, which can impair focus, has been reported in some cases. Avoid activities requiring mental alertness until you know how the medication affects you.
Does Tofajak affect mood?
Mood changes, such as depression or anxiety, are not commonly associated with Tofajak. If you notice significant mood alterations, seek medical advice.
Does Tofajak interfere with sexual function?
Sexual dysfunction, such as changes in libido or erectile issues, is not a commonly reported side effect. Contact your doctor if you experience any such effects.
Does Tofajak affect appetite?
Appetite changes are not commonly documented. If you notice unusual hunger or loss of appetite, consult your healthcare provider.
Does Tofajak cause weight gain?
Weight gain is not a frequently observed side effect. Any significant or unexpected weight changes should be reported to your doctor.
Does Tofajak cause headaches?
Headaches are a common side effect, occurring in approximately 4% of patients taking Tofajak. Over-the-counter pain relievers may help, but inform your doctor if the headaches persist.
Does Tofajak limit driving?
Dizziness or fatigue from the medication could impair driving or operating machinery. Avoid such activities until you are confident the medicine does not affect your alertness.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Tofajak?
Alcohol may enhance the risk of liver damage, especially if you already have liver concerns. Moderate consumption may be acceptable, but it’s best to consult your doctor.
Is it safe to drink coffee or tea while taking Tofajak?
Caffeine is unlikely to interact with Tofajak, and moderate consumption of coffee or tea is generally safe. However, if you experience jitteriness or increased heart rate, adjust your intake.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Tofajak?
Exercise is generally safe and encouraged. Be cautious if you experience dizziness, fatigue, or joint pain. Stay hydrated and listen to your body during physical activity.
What are Tofajak possible harms and risks?
This medicine, Tofajak, can cause some common infections like colds and bladder infections. More serious infections, like pneumonia or shingles, happened more often in people taking the medicine than in those taking a placebo (a sugar pill), especially in the first three months. After a year, the rate of serious infections was similar for both the medicine and the placebo. Other side effects like vomiting and acne were also seen.
Available in 3 variations
Tofajak 5mg Tablet 60s
Tofacitinib (5mg)
bottle of 60 tablets
Tofajak 5mg Tablet 10s
Tofajak 5mg Tablet 10s
Tofacitinib (5mg)
strip of 10 tablet
Tofajak IN XR 11mg Tablet 10s
Tofacitinib (11mg)
strip of 10 tablets
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