Tofacitinib (er) 11 mg

Category- Allopathy

Medicine Highlights

Tofacitinib Uses

Tofacitinib (extended release) 11 mg is a medicine that helps reduce inflammation by controlling an overactive immune system. It is used for the following conditions: 

1. Rheumatoid arthritis (pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints) 
2. Psoriatic arthritis (joint pain and swelling associated with psoriasis) 
3. Ulcerative colitis (inflammation and ulcers in the large intestine) 
4. Ankylosing spondylitis (long-term inflammation in the spine)     

Tofacitinib side effects 

More Common  

1. Headache 
2. Diarrhea 
3. Nausea 
4. Common cold or upper respiratory infections 
5. High blood pressure     

Less Common 

1. Serious infections (such as tuberculosis or pneumonia) 
2. Blood clots 
3. Liver problems 
4. Increased cholesterol levels 
5. Increased risk of certain cancers      

How Tofacitinib works 

Tofacitinib works by blocking inflammation causing enzymes called Janus kinases (JAK) that play an important role in the immune system. These enzymes send signals that cause inflammation in the body. By blocking these signals, tofacitinib reduces inflammation, pain, and swelling, helping to control symptoms of autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and ulcerative colitis. 

Safety Measures and Warning 

Allergy or Hypersensitivity

Avoid tofacitinib if you experience symptoms such as breathing problems, wheezing, skin rash, swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat, trouble swallowing, or throat tightness, as it may cause a serious allergic reaction.

Liver Problems

If you have liver disease, inform your doctor before using this medicine because it may affect liver function.

Low Blood Cell Counts

If you have low blood cell levels, inform your doctor, as this medicine may further lower them and increase the risk of infections.

History of Blood Clots

If you have a history of blood clots, inform your doctor before taking this medicine because it may increase the risk of clot formation.

History of Cancer

If you history of cancer, inform your doctor before using this medicine, as it may increase the risk of certain cancers. 

Tofacitinib Interaction with Food Product 

There are no major food restrictions while taking tofacitinib. However, grapefruit or grapefruit juice should be avoided because it may affect how the medicine is processed in the body and increase the risk of side effects. It is best to take this medicine as advised by your doctor.

Tofacitinib Interaction with Other Medicines  

Avoid taking Tofacitinib with the following medicines, as it may increase or decrease the desired effect, or in worse cases, it could be fatal:

Tofacitinib Chemical Structure

IUPAC (International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry)/ Chemical name

Tofacitinib: 3-[(3R,4R)-4-methyl-3-[methyl(7H-pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidin-4-yl)amino]piperidin-1-yl]-3-oxopropanenitrile  

Intake routine/cycle

Daily dose

Take Tofacitinib exactly as your doctor recommends. The dose may change based on your condition and how well you respond. Do not take more than prescribed without consulting your doctor.

Missed Dose

If you forget to take your medicine, take the medication as soon as you remember. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. Always consult the doctor before making any changes to your dosage.

Overdose

Taking more than 10 mg of Tofacitinib may lead to an overdose. Symptoms can include severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, drowsiness, or stomach bleeding. In serious cases, it may also cause kidney problems. If any unusual or severe symptoms occur, seek immediate medical help.

Storage

1. Store the medicine at room temperature. 
2. Keep away from sunlight and moisture. 
3. Keep out of reach of children. 

Directions for use 

1. Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, at the same time each day. 
2. Do not stop taking this medicine without your doctor’s approval, even if you feel better. 
3. If you forget to take this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose.  

Tofacitinib Summary 

Tofacitinib 11 mg is a Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor used to treat autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ulcerative colitis, and ankylosing spondylitis. It works by blocking certain enzymes in the immune system that cause inflammation, helping to reduce pain, swelling, and stiffness. Common side effects include headache, nausea, diarrhea, and upper respiratory infections, while serious side effects may include infections, blood clots, and liver problems. People with severe infections, serious liver disease, or known allergy to the medicine should avoid using it. This medicine should always be taken under a doctor’s supervision for safe and effective use. 

FAQ’s

What is the drug class of tofacitinib? 

Tofacitinib belongs to the class of Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, which help reduce inflammation by blocking immune system signals.

What is the mechanism of action of tofacitinib? 

Tofacitinib works by blocking Janus kinase (JAK) enzymes, which helps reduce inflammation and control the overactive immune response in autoimmune diseases. 

What are the uses of tofacitinib? 

Tofacitinib is used to treat autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ulcerative colitis, and ankylosing spondylitis by reducing inflammation and controlling the overactive immune system. 

What are the contraindications of tofacitinib? 

Tofacitinib should not be used in people with severe infections, severe liver disease, or known allergy to the medicine, as it may worsen these conditions. 

Reference 

1. Padda IS, Bhatt R, Parmar M. Tofacitinib [Internet]. PubMed. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2021. Available from 
2. Tofacitinib (Oral Route) Description and Brand Names – Mayo Clinic [Internet]. Mayoclinic.org. 2024. Available from 
3. PubChem. Tofacitinib [Internet]. pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Available from      

Pranathi Chintaluri

Pranathi is a final year Pharm D student at Chalapathi Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences. She loves learning and applying her knowledge in pharmacy and has a passion for writing, which allows her to express ideas clearly and creatively. She enjoys combining her technical skills with her love for writing and communication to make a meaningful impact. Currently she is working on a research paper about “Consanguineous marriages and its impact on children’s health” which will be published by the end of 2025.