JAKAVI 20MG TABLET

About

Jakavi (Ruxolitinib) 20mg Tablet is an oral Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor indicated for the treatment of specific myeloproliferative neoplasms. It works by selectively inhibiting JAK1 and JAK2, enzymes that are central to the signaling pathways of several cytokines and growth factors involved in hematopoiesis and immune function. In conditions like myelofibrosis, dysregulated JAK signaling leads to uncontrolled cell proliferation, inflammation, and fibrosis. By blocking these pathways, Ruxolitinib helps to reduce splenomegaly, improve constitutional symptoms such as fatigue, night sweats, and pruritus, and improve overall quality of life for patients. It is also used in polycythemia vera patients who are resistant or intolerant to hydroxyurea. Treatment requires careful monitoring of blood counts due to potential for myelosuppression.

Uses

• Myelofibrosis (primary, post-polycythemia vera, post-essential thrombocythemia)
• Polycythemia vera (in patients resistant or intolerant to hydroxyurea)
• Chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD)
• Acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD)

Directions For Use

Take orally with or without food, as directed by your physician. Do not crush or chew the tablet.

Benefits

• Reduces spleen size in myelofibrosis.
• Alleviates constitutional symptoms (fatigue, pruritus, night sweats).
• Improves quality of life for patients with myelofibrosis.
• Effective in polycythemia vera resistant to other treatments.
• Manages symptoms of graft-versus-host disease.
• Oral administration offers convenience.

Side Effects

• Thrombocytopenia (low platelet count)
• Anemia (low red blood cell count)
• Neutropenia (low white blood cell count)
• Bruising
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Diarrhea
• Weight gain
• Increased risk of infections (e.g., herpes zoster)
• Elevated cholesterol levels
• Liver enzyme elevations
• Fatigue

Safety Measures

• Alcohol - Limit alcohol intake as it may increase the risk of liver enzyme elevations.
• Pregnancy - Not recommended during pregnancy; use effective contraception due to potential fetal harm.
• Breastfeeding - Avoid breastfeeding as the drug may pass into breast milk and harm the infant.
• Liver - Dose adjustment is required in patients with hepatic impairment; monitor liver function closely.
• Kidney - Dose adjustment is necessary in patients with renal impairment; monitor kidney function.
• Lung - Use with caution in patients with active lung infections; monitor for new or worsening respiratory symptoms.

Disclaimer

MedEHub is committed to delivering reliable, expert-reviewd information to help consumers make informed health decisions. However, the content provided on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

Always consult your doctor for any medical concerns, and discuss your questions about health conditions or medications with a qualified healthcare professional. Do not ignore or delay seeking professional medical advice based on information found on Med E Hub.

Our goal is to complement, not replace, the essential doctor-patient relationship.