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Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Ruxolitinib is prescribed for the treatment of myelofibrosis, a form of bone marrow cancer characterized by the replacement of marrow with scar tissue, resulting in reduced blood cell production. Additionally, it is used to address polycythemia vera (PV), a slow-growing blood cancer where the bone marrow produces an excess of red blood cells, particularly in individuals for whom hydroxyurea treatment was not successful.
Ruxolitinib also serves as a treatment for acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD), a complication arising from hematopoietic stem-cell transplant (HSCT), a procedure that replaces diseased bone marrow with healthy marrow. This application is intended for patients who did not respond to steroid medications.
Belonging to the class of medications known as kinase inhibitors, ruxolitinib operates by inhibiting signals responsible for the proliferation of cancer cells, effectively impeding their spread. In the context of GVHD, it works by blocking signals from cells contributing to the development of GVHD.
Uses and Dosage
Ruxolitinib is available in tablet form for oral administration. Typically, it is taken either with or without food twice daily. Maintain a consistent schedule for administration.
Adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage, avoiding both excess and inadequate intake, and refrain from altering the frequency beyond the doctor’s recommendations.
For those undergoing treatment for myelofibrosis or PV, the initial phase may involve starting with a low dose of ruxolitinib for the first four weeks, followed by gradual dose increments, occurring no more than once every two weeks. In the case of acute GVHD, a low initial dose may be administered, with the potential for dose adjustments after at least 3 days of therapy. If being treated for acute or chronic GVHD, your doctor may consider lowering the ruxolitinib dose gradually after at least 6 months of therapy.
In situations where oral ingestion is not possible, and a nasogastric (NG) tube is in place, your doctor might instruct you on how to administer ruxolitinib through the NG tube.
Regular blood tests will be ordered by your doctor before and during the course of treatment to assess the medication’s impact on your health. Dose adjustments, temporary cessation, or continuation of the treatment will depend on various factors, including the medication’s efficacy, laboratory results, and the occurrence of side effects.
Communicate openly with your doctor about your well-being throughout the treatment, and continue taking ruxolitinib even if you feel well. Do not discontinue the medication without consulting your doctor, and if cessation is deemed necessary, your doctor may advise a gradual reduction in dose.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- dizziness
- headache
- weight gain
- gas
- diarrhea
- constipation
- nausea
- rash
- muscle or bone pain
- swelling of the arms, legs or other parts of the body
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- unusual or heavy bleeding or bruising
- burning, tingling, itching, or skin sensitivity on one side of the body or face with painful rash or blisters appearing several days later.
- new sores, bumps, or discoloration or other changes to the skin
- pale skin, tiredness, or shortness of breath (especially while exercising)
- difficulty moving or keeping your balance, weakness of the legs or arms that keeps getting worse, difficulty understanding or speaking, loss of memory, vision problems, or changes in personality
- swelling, pain, tenderness, warmth or redness in one or both legs
- shortness of breath
- difficulty breathing
- pain in the chest, arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach
- breaking out in cold sweat
- nausea or vomiting
- lightheadedness
- slow or difficult speech
- numbness or weakness of the face, arm, or leg on one side of your body
Caution
- Before commencing ruxolitinib, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any allergies, including allergies to ruxolitinib or any inactive ingredients in the product. Inactive ingredients may provoke allergic reactions or other complications.
- Provide your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, especially regarding current, past, or recurring infections, kidney disease, liver disease, or a history of cancer.
- This medication may induce dizziness, and the use of alcohol or marijuana can exacerbate this effect. Refrain from driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities requiring alertness until you can do so safely.
- Ruxolitinib can increase susceptibility to infections or worsen existing infections. Avoid contact with individuals carrying contagious infections. Consult your doctor if you have been exposed to an infection or for more detailed guidance.
- Inform your healthcare professional before undergoing any immunizations or vaccinations while using ruxolitinib. Avoid contact with individuals who have recently received live vaccines (such as the flu vaccine administered through the nose).
- During pregnancy, use this medication only when necessary. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
- It is uncertain whether this medication passes into breast milk. Due to the potential risk to the infant, breastfeeding is not recommended while using this drug and for 2 weeks after stopping treatment.
Form and Strength
Jakavi is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Jakavi tablet:
- 5 mg
- 10 mg
- 15 mg
- 20 mg
FAQ
Is Jakavi considered chemotherapy?
Jakavi is not chemotherapy. It is a targeted treatment that works to help keep the production of blood cells under control.
How long can you be on Jakavi?
Jakavi is a long-term treatment. Your Healthcare Professional may allow up to 6 months to see if Jakavi is working for you. If you do not see an improvement after 6 months of treatment, your Healthcare Professional may have you stop taking this medication.
