Tofajak Tablets

Tofajak Tablets contain the active ingredient Tofacitinib. It is a prescription medication that belongs to a class of drugs called Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors.

 

Mechanism of Action

 

Tofacitinib works by targeting and blocking the Janus kinase (JAK) enzymes. These enzymes are part of a critical signaling pathway that regulates the production of inflammatory cytokines. Cytokines are small proteins that act as messengers in the immune system, and an overproduction of them can lead to the inflammation that characterizes autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. By inhibiting the JAK enzymes, Tofacitinib reduces the activity of the immune system and lowers inflammation.

 

Uses

 

Tofajak Tablets are used to treat several chronic inflammatory and autoimmune conditions, particularly in patients who have not responded well to other treatments. The main uses include:

• Rheumatoid Arthritis: It is used to treat moderate to severe active rheumatoid arthritis in adults. It helps reduce joint pain, stiffness, and swelling and can slow down the progression of joint damage.

• Psoriatic Arthritis: It is used to treat active psoriatic arthritis, a condition that affects some people with psoriasis, causing joint pain, stiffness, and swelling.

• Ankylosing Spondylitis: It is used to treat this rare form of arthritis that primarily affects the spine.

• Ulcerative Colitis: It is used to treat moderate to severe active ulcerative colitis, an inflammatory bowel disease that affects the large intestine.

• Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: It can also be used to treat active polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis in children.

 

Dosage and Administration

 

• Tofajak is taken orally, usually as a tablet.

• The dosage and frequency (e.g., once or twice daily) are determined by the doctor based on the specific condition being treated and the patient's response.

• It can be taken with or without food.

• It is important to take the medication exactly as prescribed and not to stop taking it abruptly without consulting a doctor.

 

Side Effects

 

Because Tofacitinib affects the immune system, it can increase the risk of certain side effects.

Common Side Effects:

• Upper respiratory tract infections (like the common cold)

• Headache

• Diarrhea

• Nausea

• Increased cholesterol levels

Serious Side Effects:

• Serious Infections: Tofacitinib can make a person more susceptible to serious infections, including tuberculosis (TB) and shingles. Patients should be tested for TB before starting treatment.

• Blood Clots: There is an increased risk of blood clots in the legs (deep vein thrombosis) or lungs (pulmonary embolism), especially in patients with certain risk factors.

• Cardiovascular Events: In some studies, a higher dose of Tofacitinib has been associated with an increased risk of major cardiovascular events like heart attack and stroke, particularly in patients who are 50 years of age or older with at least one heart disease risk factor.

• Cancers: The drug may increase the risk of certain cancers, particularly lymphoma.

• Changes in Blood Counts: It can cause a decrease in blood cell counts, including a low white blood cell count (neutropenia) and low red blood cell count (anemia). Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor this.

 

Important Considerations

 

• Prescription-only: Tofajak is a powerful medication and requires a doctor's prescription and close medical supervision.

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: It is not recommended for use during pregnancy, as it can be harmful to a fetus. Women of child-bearing potential must use effective contraception during and for a period after treatment. It is also not recommended while breastfeeding.

• Vaccinations: Patients should consult their doctor before getting any vaccines, especially live vaccines, as the drug can affect the immune response.