Usage of Tofawin 5
Tofawin 5 is indicated for:
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Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) – moderate to severe, as monotherapy or in combination with methotrexate or other DMARDs
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Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA) – in patients with inadequate response to NSAIDs or DMARDs
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Ulcerative Colitis (UC) – moderate to severe cases not responding to standard therapies
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Off-label: Ankylosing spondylitis, alopecia areata (emerging use), and COVID-19-related hyperinflammation (under clinical study)
Mechanism of Action
Tofacitinib inhibits Janus kinase (JAK) enzymes, primarily JAK1 and JAK3, interfering with the JAK-STAT signaling pathway, which transmits signals from cytokine receptors to the cell nucleus.
This leads to:
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Suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IFN-γ, IL-2, etc.)
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Reduction in immune cell activation
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Modulation of autoimmune and inflammatory responses
Key Benefits
✅ Rapid onset of action in reducing joint pain and swelling (RA & PsA)
✅ Oral administration – non-injectable alternative to biologics
✅ Effective in patients unresponsive to methotrexate or TNF inhibitors
✅ Steroid-sparing in ulcerative colitis
✅ Improves quality of life and physical functioning
Common Side Effects
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Upper respiratory tract infections
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Headache
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Diarrhea or GI upset
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Hypertension
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Increased liver enzymes
Serious risks include infections, herpes zoster, thromboembolism, and malignancy in long-term use. Careful monitoring is essential.
Precautions
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Screen for tuberculosis, hepatitis B/C, and latent infections before starting
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Avoid use in patients with active infections
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Monitor CBC, lymphocytes, neutrophils, and lipid profile regularly
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Use with caution in elderly, smokers, and patients with CV risk factors
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Pregnancy: Not recommended (Category C); use contraception during and 4–6 weeks after therapy
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Not recommended with biologic DMARDs or potent immunosuppressants (e.g., azathioprine, cyclosporine)
Drug Interactions
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Metabolized by CYP3A4 and CYP2C19
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Avoid strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, clarithromycin)
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Monitor dose when used with fluconazole or rifampicin
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Avoid live vaccines during and shortly after treatment
Dosage and Administration
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Rheumatoid Arthritis / Psoriatic Arthritis: 5 mg twice daily
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Ulcerative Colitis: Induction – 10 mg twice daily for 8 weeks, then maintenance at 5 mg BID
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Dose adjustment may be needed in renal or hepatic impairment
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Can be taken with or without food
Storage
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Store at room temperature (<25°C)
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Keep in a dry place, away from direct sunlight
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Keep out of reach of children
Patient Counseling Points
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Inform doctor of any signs of infection, fever, or fatigue
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Complete blood and liver tests as scheduled
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Do not stop medication without physician’s advice
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Avoid pregnancy during and for several weeks after treatment
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Maintain regular monitoring to ensure safe use






