Tofacitinib

Do not take Tofacitinib if you are allergic to any of its components; if you have a severe infection, bloodstream infection, active tuberculosis, or if you have severe liver problems such as cirrhosis. Avoid taking Tofacitinib if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Inform your doctor if you have an infection, symptoms of infection, a condition that increases chances of infection, are taking any medicines that affect the immune system; have or had a history of tuberculosis, or were in close contact with someone who has/had tuberculosis; chronic lung disease, liver problems, hepatitis B/C, cancer, are at a high risk of developing skin cancer, inflammation/ulcers of the large intestine, kidney problems, planning to get vaccinated, heart problems, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, heart attack, diabetes, or blood clotting problems. If your white blood cell count or red blood cell count is low, avoid taking Tofacitinib. Tofacitinib is not recommended for children below 18 years as safety and effectiveness have not been established. Keep your doctor informed about your health condition and medicines to rule out any side effects.

Drug-Drug Interactions: Tofacitinib may interact with antibiotic (rifampicin), anti-fungal (fluconazole, ketoconazole), immunosuppressant (azathioprine, mercaptopurine, cyclosporine, tacrolimus), corticosteroids (prednisone).

Drug-Food Interactions: No interactions found/established.

Drug-Disease Interactions: Inform your doctor if you have infections, bloodstream infection, severe liver problems, tuberculosis, blood clot problems, diabetes, high cholesterol, intestinal perforation, or gastrointestinal obstruction.

• Physical activity helps in strengthening muscles and relieves joint stiffness. Gentle activities like 20-30minutes of walking or swimming would be helpful.
• Performing yoga may also help in improving joint flexibility and pain management.
• Maintain a healthy weight by performing regular low-strain exercises and eating healthy food.
• Get adequate sleep, as resting the muscles can help in reducing inflammation and swelling.
• De-stress yourself by meditating, reading books, taking a warm bubble bath or listening to soothing music.
• Acupuncture, massage and physical therapy may also be helpful.
• Eat food rich in antioxidants such as berries, spinach, kidney beans, dark chocolate, etc.
• Foods containing flavonoids help in reducing inflammation. These include soy, berries, broccoli, grapes and green tea.
• Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption.

• Your doctor may advise you to get a blood test done before starting treatment with Tofacitinib, after 4-8weeks of treatment and then every three months to determine your blood cell count.
• Your doctor might advise regular tests to determine blood cholesterol levels and liver functioning.
• Inform your doctor if you notice painful blisters on the skin or if you experience breathing difficulties.
• If you are a woman of child-bearing potential, use effective contraception during the treatment with Tofacitinib and for 4 weeks after discontinuation.