About tofacitinib citrate
Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor
Used for
- Treats rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis in adults.
- Treats ulcerative colitis in adults.
- Treats polyarticular-course juvenile idiopathic arthritis in children aged two years and older.
Usual adult dose
Usually 5 mg twice daily for arthritis; ulcerative colitis dosing varies by treatment phase and individual risks.
Usual dose in children
For juvenile arthritis, usually 5 mg twice daily or weight-based liquid dosing; specialist supervision is required.
Common side effects
- Upper respiratory infections, headache, and diarrhea
- Raised cholesterol or liver enzymes
- Shingles and other serious infections
- Blood clots or serious heart events
Important warnings
- Can cause serious infections, including tuberculosis; screening is needed before treatment.
- May increase risks of blood clots, major heart events, and certain cancers.
- Avoid live vaccines during treatment.
- Dose changes may be needed with kidney or liver impairment or interacting medicines.
Pregnancy
May harm an unborn baby; pregnancy registry information is available. Discuss pregnancy plans with a clinician.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment and for at least 18 hours after the last immediate-release dose.
Interactions
- Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, such as ketoconazole, can raise drug levels.
- Strong CYP3A4 inducers, such as rifampin, can reduce effectiveness.
- Avoid combining with biologic immune-modifying drugs or potent immunosuppressants.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.