Possible risk and side effects Xeljanz(Tofacitinib)

Like any medicine, tofacitinib can cause side effects. The most common ones, headaches and diarrheic, aren’t usually serious and should soon pass. Feeling sick is fairly common when taking tofacitinib but may settle with time.

Because tofacitinib affects your immune system, it can make you more likely to pick up infections. These aren’t usually serious and include throat, nose and chest infections, cold sores, urinary tract infections and stomach upsets. Some people may have more serious infections including shingles and skin infections, known as cellulitis.

Xeljanz(Tofacitinib) tablet

Tell your doctor or rheumatology nurse straight away if you develop any signs of infection such as a sore throat or persistent cough, fever or chills, or any other new symptoms that concern you. If any of these symptoms are severe, you should stop taking tofacitinib and see your doctor straight away.

You should also see your doctor if you develop chickenpox or shingles or come into contact with someone who has chickenpox or shingles. These may be more severe if you’re on tofacitinib. You may need treatment, and you may need to stop taking tofacitinib xeljanz until you’re better.

Some people who take tofacitinib may have a reduced white blood cell count, raised cholesterol or raised levels of liver enzymes. These problems are usually mild but your rheumatology team will arrange regular blood checks while you are taking tofacitinib as a precaution.

It’s possible that tofacitinib may increase the risk of blood clots in the legs, called deep vein thrombosis. These can sometimes move to the lungs, which is called pulmonary embolism. The risk is likely to be greater if you’ve had either of these before. You should seek urgent medical care if you develop swelling of the legs or breathlessness.

It’s possible that there may be a slightly increased risk of some cancers in people taking XELJANZ (Tofacitinib) though research so far hasn’t confirmed this. If you’ve had previous cancers, this may affect whether tofacitinib is offered to you as a treatment.

Tofacitinib can sometimes cause stomach or bowel problems. These are more common in people who also take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or steroids. You should also tell your doctor straight away if you notice any signs of stomach or abdominal problems, such as pain, change in bowel habits or blood in your poo.

Rarely, tofacitinib can cause an allergic reaction with sudden swelling, a rash or breathlessness. If you develop these symptoms, or any other severe symptoms while taking tofacitinib, you should seek medical advice straight away.

Tips to reduce your risk of infection

• Try to avoid close contact with people you know have an infection.
• Wash your hands regularly and carry around a small bottle of antibacterial hand gel.
• Keep your mouth clean by brushing your teeth regularly.
• Stop smoking if you’re a smoker.
• Make sure your food is stored and prepared properly.
• Try to keep your house clean and hygienic, especially the kitchen, bathrooms and toilets.