Tofacitinib Extended Release Tablets 11 Mg

Tofacitinib extended-release (XR) tablets 11 mg are a daily oral medication used to treat several autoimmune inflammatory conditions. Marketed under brand names such as Xeljanz XR, it works by inhibiting Janus kinase (JAK) enzymes, which helps reduce the immune system's inflammatory response. Note: This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice. A qualified healthcare provider must evaluate your condition and prescribe the appropriate treatment.Conditions treatedThe 11 mg XR tablet is used to manage moderate to severe symptoms of the following conditions in adults:

• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): Reduces pain, swelling, and joint tenderness, and can slow joint damage.
• Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): Addresses joint inflammation and swelling associated with this condition.
• Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): Decreases joint inflammation and discomfort.
• Ulcerative Colitis (UC): Used for maintenance therapy after an initial induction dose.

DosageFor RA and PsA, the typical dosage is one 11 mg XR tablet taken once daily. A doctor may adjust the dose depending on the condition and patient response. Potential side effectsCommon side effects can include:

• Headache
• Nausea and diarrhea
• Upper respiratory tract infections, such as the common cold
• Increased cholesterol levels
• Rash
• Shingles (herpes zoster)

Boxed warnings and serious risks Tofacitinib extended-release carries several serious warnings. Patients should discuss their full medical history with their doctor before starting this medication.

• Serious infections: Tofacitinib can increase the risk of serious and sometimes fatal infections, including tuberculosis, fungal, and other bacterial or viral infections.
• Cardiovascular events: In some patients with rheumatoid arthritis, particularly those 50 years or older with cardiovascular risk factors, higher doses of tofacitinib have been associated with a greater risk of heart attack and stroke.
• Blood clots: Higher doses of tofacitinib have been linked to a higher risk of blood clots in the lungs and veins.
• Cancer and immune system problems: Tofacitinib can affect the immune system and increase the risk of certain cancers, including lymphoma, lung cancer, and skin cancer.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Tofacitinib is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals.

Administration guidelines

• Take the tablet once daily, with or without food.
• Do not crush, chew, or split the tablet, as this can affect the extended-release properties.
• Regular monitoring of blood counts and liver and kidney function is necessary while on this medication.
• Avoid combining tofacitinib with biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) or potent immunosuppressants.