Tofacitinib 5mg

Tofacitinib 5mg — Uses and Benefits

Tofacitinib 5mg is prescribed for autoimmune conditions where the body's immune system attacks its own tissues, causing inflammation and damage.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Rheumatoid arthritis, especially when other treatments have not worked well
• Psoriatic arthritis
• Ulcerative colitis (a type of inflammatory bowel disease)
• Certain other autoimmune joint or bowel conditions as advised by a specialist

HOW IT WORKS

• Blocks JAK enzymes inside immune cells
• Reduces the signals that trigger inflammation
• Helps decrease joint pain, swelling, and stiffness
• Helps control gut inflammation and symptoms like diarrhoea and bleeding in ulcerative colitis

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Not a painkiller for ordinary aches or fever
• Not used for infections
• Not a cure for autoimmune disease, but a long-term control medicine
• Not for use without proper diagnosis and monitoring by a specialist doctor

How to Use Tofacitinib 5mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once or twice a day
• Can be taken with or without food, unless your doctor advises otherwise
• Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush or chew
• Take at the same time each day to maintain steady levels in the body
• Do not stop the medicine suddenly without consulting your doctor, even if you feel better

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one
• If you miss doses often, tell your doctor as this may affect how well the medicine works

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep in the original pack until it is time to take it
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Tofacitinib 5mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Headache
• Diarrhoea
• Nausea
• Common cold-like symptoms
• Raised cholesterol levels on blood tests

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Rash
• Mild fever
• Muscle or joint pain
• Changes in liver function tests
• Low blood cell counts noticed on routine tests

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Signs of serious infection such as high fever, chills, or persistent cough
• Chest pain, breathlessness, or sudden weakness (possible blood clot, heart, or lung problem)
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Severe stomach pain, especially with fever (possible bowel problem)
• Signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling of face/lips, difficulty breathing, or severe rash

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Tofacitinib 5mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available only with a valid doctor's prescription in India and should be used under specialist supervision with regular monitoring.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to tofacitinib or any ingredient in the tablet
• Have an active serious infection, including tuberculosis
• Have severe liver disease
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding, unless specifically advised by your doctor

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have a history of tuberculosis, hepatitis B or C, or other chronic infections
• Have had cancer or a blood clot in the past
• Have heart disease, high cholesterol, or are a smoker
• Have liver or kidney problems
• Are planning surgery or vaccination soon
• Are planning pregnancy or are breastfeeding

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other immune-suppressing medicines or biologics
• Strong antifungal or antibiotic medicines
• Medicines used for tuberculosis or HIV treatment
• Live vaccines, which should generally be avoided during treatment
• Any other prescription, over-the-counter, or herbal medicine you are taking

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I take this medicine long term?

Yes, many patients take it long term under regular doctor monitoring and blood tests.

Will this medicine increase my risk of infections?

Yes, it can lower your immune defence, so report any signs of infection promptly.

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

• It is best to avoid or limit alcohol, as it may affect the liver; ask your doctor for specific guidance.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.