XELJANZ (TOFACITINIB)

When other treatments have failed to produce positive result for your rheumatoid arthritis (RA) pain, talk to your doctor about Xeljanz. This is an oral Rx drug known as a Janus Kinase (JAK) inhibitor that your doctor can prescribe for treating moderately to severely active RA. The active ingredient in Xeljanz is called Tofacitinib that works by targeting inside the signaling or JAK pathways inside the cell that plays a part in the inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis. By blocking this pathway, Xeljanz is able to fight inflammation from inside the cell and decrease the cell’s ability to make more inflammatory proteins.

RA is an autoimmune disease that affects the cartilage and joint linings in various parts of your body, such as fingers, wrists, knees, and elbows, as a misguided immune response to what your body believes is a threat. Continued attacks will result in the erosion of 2 opposing bones and cause intense pain that can stop you from taking part in everyday activities and could lead to deformities of these joints.

Taking Xeljanz will lower your immune system and could make you more vulnerable to infections so your doctor may request that you be tested for Tuberculosis and other bacterial, fungal, or viral infections before starting you on this JAK inhibitor. Discuss any current medical conditions you have and list other medications you take or use to avoid possible adverse reaction from Xeljanz.