Important Safety Update for XELJANZ^® (tofacitinib)

On Friday, December 3, 2021, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) updated the XELJANZ full prescribing information. Pfizer issued a media statement announcing that the U.S. full prescribing information for XELJANZ^® (tofacitinib) has been updated based on the U.S. FDA’s completed review of the ORAL Surveillance trial, a post-marketing required safety study. Talk to your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about this safety update. Your healthcare provider should consider the benefits and risks of XELJANZ.

The safety information below applies to all marketed formulations of XELJANZ. Specific risks associated with certain dosing are noted.

As a result of this review, an additional warning for Major Cardiovascular Events, and updated warnings for Mortality, Cancer, and Blood Clots were included in the Boxed Warning and related Warnings and Precautions section of the prescribing information and in the Most Important Information I Should Know section of the patient Medication Guide for XELJANZ.

The updated Boxed Warning information regarding Mortality discusses the increased risk of death in people 50 years of age and older who have at least 1 heart disease (cardiovascular) risk factor taking recommended doses of XELJANZ.

The updated Boxed Warning regarding cancer discusses a higher risk of certain cancers, including lymphoma and lung cancer in patients taking XELJANZ, especially if you are a current or past smoker. Tell your healthcare provider if you are a current or past smoker or have had any type of cancer.

The new Boxed Warning includes information regarding increased risk of major cardiovascular events such as heart attack, stroke, or death in people 50 years of age and older who have at least 1 heart disease (cardiovascular) risk factor and are taking recommended doses of XELJANZ, especially if you are a current or past smoker.

Patients taking XELJANZ should seek medical attention right away or get emergency help if you have any symptoms of a heart attack or stroke, including:

discomfort in the center of your chest that lasts for more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back
severe tightness, pain, pressure, or heaviness in your chest, throat, neck, or jaw
pain or discomfort in your arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach
shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort
breaking out in a cold sweat
nausea or vomiting
feeling lightheaded
weakness in one part or on one side of your body
slurred speech

The updated Boxed Warning regarding blood clots in the lungs (pulmonary embolism, PE), veins of the legs (deep vein thrombosis, DVT) and arteries (arterial thrombosis) discusses that blood clots have happened more often in patients who are 50 years of age and older and with at least 1 heart disease (cardiovascular) risk factor taking recommended doses of XELJANZ. Patients should tell their healthcare provider if they have had blood clots in the veins of their legs, arms, or lungs or clots in arteries in the past. Patients should always ask their doctors for medical advice about adverse events. You are encouraged to report adverse events related to Pfizer products by calling 1-800-438-1985 (U.S. only). If you prefer, you may contact the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) directly. Visit https://www.fda.gov/MedWatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

The FDA approved use of XELJANZ for adults with moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis, active psoriatic arthritis, and for children age 2 and over with polyarticular course juvenile idiopathic arthritis and now recommends use after one or more medicines called tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blockers did not work well or cannot be tolerated.

If you have any questions about these updates talk to your healthcare provider.

The updated Important Safety Information and Indications for XELJANZ are included below for your review.

It is also important to read the patient Medication Guide you receive with your XELJANZ prescriptions, which explains the important things you need to know about the medicine. These include side effects, what the medicine is used for, how to take and store it properly, and other things to watch for when you’re taking the medicine.

Information about Post-Marketing Safety Study

When the FDA first approved XELJANZ for adults with moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis in 2012, the agency required a clinical safety trial to examine the risk for heart-related problems, cancer, and serious infections in XELJANZ compared to another type of medicine called tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blockers. This trial, known as Oral Surveillance enrolled 4,369 participants who were required to be at least 50 years of age and have at least one cardiovascular risk factor.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

The safety information below applies to all marketed formulations of XELJANZ. Specific risks associated with certain dosing are noted.

Serious infections. XELJANZ can lower the ability of your immune system to fight infections. Do not start taking XELJANZ if you have any kind of infection unless your healthcare provider tells you it is okay. Serious infections have happened in people taking XELJANZ. These serious infections include tuberculosis (TB) and infections caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses that can spread throughout the body. Some people have died from these infections. Your healthcare provider should test you for TB before starting and during treatment with XELJANZ. You should not start taking XELJANZ if you have any kind of infection unless your healthcare professional tells you it is okay.

Before and after starting XELJANZ, tell your doctor if you have an infection or symptoms of an infection, including:

fever, sweating, or chills
cough
blood in phlegm
warm, red, or painful skin or sores on your body
burning when you urinate
urinating more often than normal
muscle aches
shortness of breath
weight loss
diarrhea or stomach pain
feeling very tired

Increased risk of death in people 50 years of age and older who have at least 1 heart disease (cardiovascular) risk factor and are taking XELJANZ 5 mg twice daily or XELJANZ 10 mg twice daily.

Cancer. XELJANZ may increase your risk of certain cancers by changing the way your immune system works. Lymphoma and other cancers, including skin cancers, can happen. People taking XELJANZ 5 mg twice daily or XELJANZ 10 mg twice daily have a higher risk of certain cancers including lymphoma and lung cancer, especially if you are a current or past smoker. Tell your healthcare provider if you have ever had any type of cancer.

Higher dose. People with ulcerative colitis taking the higher dose of XELJANZ (10 mg twice daily) or XELJANZ XR (22 mg one time each day) have a higher risk of serious infections, shingles, or skin cancers.

Immune system problem. Some people who have taken XELJANZ with certain other medicines to prevent kidney transplant rejection have had a problem with certain white blood cells growing out of control (Epstein Barr Virus–associated post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder).

Increased risk of major cardiovascular events such as heart attack, stroke or death in people 50 years of age and older who have at least 1 heart disease (cardiovascular) risk factor and are taking XELJANZ 5 mg twice daily or XELJANZ 10 mg twice daily, especially if you are a current or past smoker.

Get emergency help right away if you have any symptoms of a heart attack or stroke while taking XELJANZ, including:

discomfort in the center of your chest that lasts for more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back
severe tightness, pain, pressure, or heaviness in your chest, throat, neck, or jaw
pain or discomfort in your arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach
shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort
breaking out in a cold sweat
nausea or vomiting
feeling lightheaded
weakness in one part or on one side of your body
slurred speech

Blood clots in the lungs (pulmonary embolism, PE), veins of the legs (deep vein thrombosis, DVT), and arteries (arterial thrombosis) have happened more often in patients who are 50 years of age and older and with at least 1 heart disease (cardiovascular) risk factor taking XELJANZ 5 mg twice daily or XELJANZ 10 mg twice daily. Blood clots in the lungs have also happened in patients with ulcerative colitis. Some people have died from these blood clots.

Stop taking XELJANZ and tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any signs and symptoms of blood clots such as sudden shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, chest pain, swelling of a leg or arm, leg pain or tenderness, or red or discolored skin in the leg or arm.

Tears (perforation) in the stomach or intestines. Tell your healthcare provider if you have had diverticulitis (inflammation in parts of the large intestine) or ulcers in your stomach or intestines. Some people taking XELJANZ can get tears in their stomach or intestine. This happens most often in people who also take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, or methotrexate. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have fever, stomach-area pain that does not go away, and a change in your bowel habits.

Serious allergic reactions can occur. Stop using XELJANZ and call your healthcare provider right away if you have swelling of your lips, tongue, throat, or get hives.

Changes in certain lab test results. Your doctor should do blood tests to check your white and red blood cells before and while you are taking XELJANZ. Your doctor should also check certain liver tests. You should not receive XELJANZ if your lymphocyte count, neutrophil count, or red blood cell count is too low or your liver function test levels are too high. Changes in lab test results may cause your healthcare provider to stop your XELJANZ treatment for a time. Your cholesterol levels should be checked 4 to 8 weeks after you start receiving XELJANZ.

Before you use XELJANZ, tell your healthcare provider if you:

Are being treated for an infection, have an infection that won’t go away or keeps coming back, or think you have symptoms of an infection
Have TB, or have been in close contact with someone with TB, or were born in, lived in, or traveled where there is more risk for getting TB
Have diabetes, chronic lung disease, HIV, or a weak immune system. People with these conditions have a higher chance for infections
Live or have lived in certain areas (such as Ohio and Mississippi River Valleys and the Southwest) where there is an increased chance for getting certain kinds of fungal infections
Have or have had Hepatitis B or C
Are a current or past smoker
Have had any type of cancer
Have had a heart attack, other heart problems or stroke
Have had blood clots
Have liver or kidney problems
Have any stomach area (abdominal) pain or been diagnosed with diverticulitis or ulcers in your stomach or intestines
Have recently received or plan to receive a vaccine. People taking XELJANZ should not receive live vaccines but can receive non-live vaccines
Are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to breastfeed. You should not take XELJANZ and breastfeed
Have had a reaction to tofacitinib or any of the ingredients
Are taking other medicines, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Especially tell your healthcare provider if you take any of the following medicines while taking XELJANZ since this may increase your risk of infection:
- tocilizumab (Actemra^®)
- etanercept (Enbrel^®)
- adalimumab (Humira^®)
- infliximab (Remicade^®)
- rituximab (Rituxan^®)
- abatacept (Orencia^®)
- anakinra (Kineret^®)
- certolizumab (Cimzia^®)
- golimumab (Simponi^®)
- ustekinumab (Stelara^®)
- secukinumab (Cosentyx^®)
- vedolizumab (Entyvio^®)
- sarilumab (Kevzara^®)
- azathioprine, cyclosporine, or other immunosuppressive drugs
Tell your healthcare provider if you are taking medicines that affect the way certain liver enzymes work. Ask your healthcare provider if you are not sure if your medicine is one of these.

What are other possible side effects of XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR?

If you are a carrier of the Hepatitis B or C virus (viruses that affect the liver), the virus may become active while you use XELJANZ. Your healthcare provider may do blood tests before starting and while using treatment with XELJANZ. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any signs of these symptoms: feel very tired, little or no appetite, clay-colored bowel movements, chills, muscle aches, skin rash, skin or eyes look yellow, vomiting, fevers, stomach discomfort, or dark urine.

Common side effects in adults with rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis include upper respiratory tract infections (common cold, sinus infections), headache, diarrhea, nasal congestion, sore throat, runny nose (nasopharyngitis), and high blood pressure (hypertension).

Common side effects in adults with ulcerative colitis include nasal congestion, sore throat, runny nose (nasopharyngitis), increased cholesterol levels, headache, upper respiratory tract infections (common cold, sinus infections), increased muscle enzyme levels, rash, diarrhea, and shingles (herpes zoster).

Common side effects in children (2 & older) with polyarticular course juvenile arthritis include upper respiratory tract infections (common cold, sinus infections), nasal congestion, sore throat, and runny nose (nasopharyngitis), headache, fever, nausea, and vomiting.

XELJANZ & Pregnancy

XELJANZ may affect the ability of females to get pregnant. It is not known if this will change after stopping XELJANZ. It is not known if XELJANZ will harm an unborn baby.

Pregnancy Registry: Pfizer has a registry for pregnant women who take XELJANZ. The purpose of this registry is to check the health of the pregnant mother and her baby. If you are pregnant or become pregnant while taking XELJANZ, talk to your healthcare provider about how you can join this pregnancy registry or you may contact the registry at 1-877-311-8972 to enroll.

You and your healthcare provider should decide if you will take XELJANZ or breastfeed. You should not do both. After you stop your treatment with XELJANZ do not start breastfeeding again until 18 hours after your last dose of XELJANZ or 36 hours after your last dose of XELJANZ XR.

What is XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR/XELJANZ Oral Solution?

XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR (tofacitinib) is used to treat adults with:

Moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis when 1 or more medicines called tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blockers have been used, and did not work well or cannot be tolerated
Active psoriatic arthritis when 1 or more tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blocker medicines have been used, and did not work well or cannot be tolerated
Moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis when 1 or more tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blocker medicines have been used, and did not work well or cannot be tolerated

XELJANZ/XELJANZ Oral Solution is used to treat patients 2 years of age and older with:

Active polyarticular course juvenile arthritis when 1 or more tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blocker medicines have been used, and did not work well or cannot be tolerated

It is not known if XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR is safe and effective in people with Hepatitis B or C.

XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR/XELJANZ Oral Solution is not recommended for people with severe liver problems.

It is not known if XELJANZ/XELJANZ Oral Solution is safe and effective in children for treatment other than active polyarticular course juvenile arthritis.

It is not known if XELJANZ XR is safe and effective in children.

Please see full Prescribing Information, including BOXED WARNING and Medication Guide.

Safety / Side Effects

If you are considering asking your doctor about XELJANZ, it’s important to learn more about the risks and benefits. The tools below can provide helpful information about taking XELJANZ and the safety and side effects of treatment.

The safety information below applies to all marketed formulations of XELJANZ. Specific risks associated with certain dosing are noted.

Possible Side Effects

XELJANZ (tofacitinib) may cause serious side effects.

Serious Infections

XELJANZ can lower the ability of your immune system to fight infections. Do not start taking XELJANZ if you have any kind of infection unless your healthcare provider tells you it is okay. Serious infections have happened in people taking XELJANZ. These serious infections include tuberculosis (TB) and infections caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses that can spread throughout the body. Some people have died from these infections. Your healthcare provider should test you for TB before starting and during treatment with XELJANZ. You should not start taking XELJANZ if you have any kind of infection unless your healthcare professional tells you it is okay.

Before and after starting XELJANZ, tell your doctor if you are being treated for an infection, have infections that keep coming back, or have symptoms of an infection, including:

fever, sweating, or chills
cough
blood in phlegm
warm, red, or painful skin or sores on your body
burning when you urinate
urinating more often than normal
muscle aches
shortness of breath
weight loss
diarrhea or stomach pain
feeling very tired

People with ulcerative colitis taking the higher dose of XELJANZ (10 mg twice daily) or XELJANZ XR (22 mg one time each day) have a higher risk of serious infections or shingles.

These are not all of the possible side effects of XELJANZ. Learn more and read the Medication Guide.

Increased Risk Of Death In People Age 50+ With At Least One Heart Disease Risk Factor

Increased risk of death in people 50 years of age and older who have at least 1 heart disease (cardiovascular) risk factor and are taking XELJANZ 5 mg twice daily or XELJANZ 10 mg twice daily.

These are not all of the possible side effects of XELJANZ. Learn more and read the Medication Guide.

Cancer And Immune System Problems

XELJANZ may increase your risk of certain cancers by changing the way your immune system works. Lymphoma and other cancers, including skin cancers, can happen. People taking XELJANZ 5 mg twice daily or XELJANZ 10 mg twice daily have a higher risk of certain cancers including lymphoma and lung cancer, especially if you are a current or past smoker. Tell your healthcare provider if you have ever had any type of cancer.

People with ulcerative colitis taking the higher dose of XELJANZ (10 mg twice daily) or XELJANZ XR (22 mg one time each day) have a higher risk of skin cancers.

Some people who have taken XELJANZ with certain other medicines to prevent kidney transplant rejection have had a problem with certain white blood cells growing out of control (Epstein Barr Virus–associated post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder).

These are not all of the possible side effects of XELJANZ. Learn more and read the Medication Guide.

Increased Risk Of Major Cardiovascular Events In People Age 50+ With At Least One Heart Disease Risk Factor, Especially If You Are A Current Or Past Smoker

Increased risk of major cardiovascular events such as heart attack, stroke or death in people 50 years of age and older who have at least 1 heart disease (cardiovascular) risk factor and are taking XELJANZ 5 mg twice daily or XELJANZ 10 mg twice daily, especially if you are a current or past smoker.

Get emergency help right away if you have any symptoms of a heart attack or stroke while taking XELJANZ, including:

discomfort in the center of your chest that lasts for more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back
severe tightness, pain, pressure, or heaviness in your chest, throat, neck, or jaw
pain or discomfort in your arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach
shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort
breaking out in a cold sweat
nausea or vomiting
feeling lightheaded
weakness in one part or on one side of your body
slurred speech

These are not all of the possible side effects of XELJANZ. Learn more and read the Medication Guide.

Blood Clots In The Lungs, Veins Of The Legs, And Arteries In People Age 50+

Blood clots in the lungs (pulmonary embolism, PE), veins of the legs (deep vein thrombosis, DVT), and arteries (arterial thrombosis) have happened more often in people who are 50 years of age and older and with at least 1 heart disease (cardiovascular) risk factor taking XELJANZ 5 mg twice daily or XELJANZ 10 mg twice daily. Blood clots in the lungs have also happened in people with ulcerative colitis. Some people have died from these blood clots.

Stop taking XELJANZ and tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any signs and symptoms of blood clots such as sudden shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, chest pain, swelling of a leg or arm, leg pain or tenderness, or red or discolored skin in the leg or arm.

These are not all of the possible side effects of XELJANZ. Learn more and read the Medication Guide.

Tears (Perforation) In The Stomach Or Intestines

Tell your healthcare provider if you have had diverticulitis (inflammation in parts of the large intestine) or ulcers in your stomach or intestines. Some people taking XELJANZ can get tears in their stomach or intestine. This happens most often in people who also take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, or methotrexate. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have fever, stomach-area pain that does not go away, and a change in your bowel habits.

These are not all of the possible side effects of XELJANZ. Learn more and read the Medication Guide.

Serious Allergic Reactions

Serious allergic reactions can occur. Stop using XELJANZ and call your healthcare provider right away if you have swelling of your lips, tongue, throat, or get hives.

These are not all of the possible side effects of XELJANZ. Learn more and read the Medication Guide.

Changes In Certain Lab Test Results

Your doctor should do blood tests to check your white and red blood cells before starting and while you are taking XELJANZ. Your doctor should also check certain liver tests. You should not take XELJANZ if your lymphocyte count, neutrophil count, or red blood cell count is too low or your liver function test levels are too high. Changes in lab test results may cause your healthcare provider to stop your XELJANZ treatment for a time. Your cholesterol levels should be checked 4 to 8 weeks after you start receiving XELJANZ.

These are not all of the possible side effects of XELJANZ. Learn more and read the Medication Guide.

What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider Before Taking XELJANZ?

Before you use XELJANZ, tell your healthcare provider if you:

Are being treated for an infection, have an infection that won’t go away or keeps coming back, or think you have symptoms of an infection
Have TB, or have been in close contact with someone with TB, or were born in, lived in, or traveled where there is more risk for getting TB
Have diabetes, chronic lung disease, HIV, or a weak immune system. People with these conditions have a higher chance for infections
Live or have lived in certain areas (such as Ohio and Mississippi River Valleys and the Southwest) where there is an increased chance for getting certain kinds of fungal infections
Have or have had Hepatitis B or C
Are a current or past smoker
Have had any type of cancer
Have had a heart attack, other heart problems or stroke
Have had blood clots
Have liver or kidney problems
Have any stomach area (abdominal) pain or been diagnosed with diverticulitis or ulcers in your stomach or intestines
Have recently received or plan to receive a vaccine. People taking XELJANZ should not receive live vaccines but can receive non-live vaccines
Are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to breastfeed. You should not take XELJANZ and breastfeed
Have had a reaction to tofacitinib or any of the ingredients
Are taking other medicines, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Especially tell your healthcare provider if you take any of the following medicines while taking XELJANZ since this may increase your risk of infection:

tocilizumab (Actemra^®)
etanercept (Enbrel^®)
adalimumab (Humira^®)
infliximab (Remicade^®)
rituximab (Rituxan^®)
abatacept (Orencia^®)
anakinra (Kineret^®)
certolizumab (Cimzia^®)
golimumab (Simponi^®)
ustekinumab (Stelara^®)
secukinumab (Cosentyx^®)
vedolizumab (Entyvio^®)
ixekizumab (Taltz^®)
sarilumab (Kevzara^®)
azathioprine, cyclosporine, or other immunosuppressive drugs

Tell your healthcare provider if you are taking medicines that affect the way certain liver enzymes work. Ask your healthcare provider if you are not sure if your medicine is one of these.

These are not all of the possible side effects of XELJANZ. Learn more and read the Medication Guide.

What Are Other Possible Side Effects Of XELJANZ?

If you are a carrier of the Hepatitis B or C virus (viruses that affect the liver), the virus may become active while you use XELJANZ. Your healthcare provider may do blood tests before starting and while using treatment with XELJANZ. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any signs of these symptoms: feel very tired, little or no appetite, clay-colored bowel movements, chills, muscle aches, skin rash, skin or eyes look yellow, vomiting, fevers, stomach discomfort, or dark urine.

Common side effects in people with rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis include upper respiratory tract infections (common cold, sinus infections), headache, diarrhea, nasal congestion, sore throat, runny nose (nasopharyngitis), and high blood pressure (hypertension).

Common side effects in people with ulcerative colitis include nasal congestion, sore throat, runny nose (nasopharyngitis), increased cholesterol levels, headache, upper respiratory tract infections (common cold, sinus infections), increased muscle enzyme levels, rash, diarrhea, and shingles (herpes zoster).

Common side effects in children (2 & older) with polyarticular course juvenile arthritis include upper respiratory tract infections (common cold, sinus infections), nasal congestion, sore throat, and runny nose (nasopharyngitis), headache, fever, nausea, and vomiting.

These are not all of the possible side effects of XELJANZ. Learn more and read the Medication Guide.

Patients should always ask their doctors for medical advice about adverse events. You are encouraged to report adverse events related to Pfizer products by calling 1-800-438-1985 (U.S. only). If you prefer, you may contact the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) directly. Visit www.fda.gov/MedWatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Questions About XELJANZ

What Should I Know Before Starting On XELJANZ?

XELJANZ can lower the ability of your immune system to fight infections. Do not start taking XELJANZ if you have any kind of infection unless your healthcare provider tells you it is okay. Serious infections have happened in people taking XELJANZ. These serious infections include tuberculosis (TB) and infections caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses that can spread throughout the body. Some people have died from these infections. Your healthcare provider should test you for TB before starting and during treatment with XELJANZ. You should not start taking XELJANZ if you have any kind of infection unless your healthcare professional tells you it is okay.

People with ulcerative colitis taking the higher dose of XELJANZ (10 mg twice daily) or XELJANZ XR (22 mg one time each day) have a higher risk of serious infections, shingles, or skin cancers.

How Should I Take XELJANZ?

Take XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR/XELJANZ Oral Solution exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to take it.

Take XELJANZ/XELJANZ Oral Solution 2 times a day with or without food.

Take XELJANZ XR 1 time a day with or without food.

Swallow XELJANZ XR tablets whole and intact. Do not crush, split, or chew.

When you take XELJANZ XR, you may see something in your stool that looks like a tablet. This is the empty shell from the tablet after the medicine has been absorbed by your body.

If you take too much XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR/XELJANZ Oral Solution, call your healthcare provider or go to the nearest hospital emergency room right away.

For the treatment of psoriatic arthritis, take XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR in combination with methotrexate, sulfasalazine or leflunomide as instructed by your healthcare provider.

XELJANZ XR should not be used instead of XELJANZ Oral Solution.

What Should I Do If I Miss A Dose?

Contact your healthcare provider if you miss a dose or forget to take XELJANZ for an extended period of time.

If I’m Taking XELJANZ XR, Will I See Something In My Stool?

When you take XELJANZ XR, you may see something in your stool that looks like a tablet. This is the empty shell from the tablet after the medicine has been absorbed by your body.

What Should I Do If I Plan To Become Pregnant Or Am Pregnant?

XELJANZ may affect the ability of females to get pregnant. It is not known if this will change after stopping XELJANZ. It is not known if XELJANZ will harm an unborn baby.

Pregnancy Registry: Pfizer has a registry for pregnant women who take XELJANZ. The purpose of this registry is to check the health of the pregnant mother and her baby. If you are pregnant or become pregnant while taking XELJANZ, talk to your healthcare provider about how you can join this pregnancy registry or you may contact the registry at 1-877-311-8972 to enroll.

What Should I Do If I Plan To Breastfeed Or Am Breastfeeding?

You and your healthcare provider should decide if you will take XELJANZ or breastfeed. You should not do both. After you stop your treatment with XELJANZ do not start breastfeeding again until 18 hours after your last dose of XELJANZ or 36 hours after your last dose of XELJANZ XR.

Taking XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR

Depending on your diagnosis and other factors, your doctor may prescribe you a different dosage of XELJANZ or XELJANZ XR—which affects how many times a day you take your medication. In the meantime, learn more about the options you may have by selecting your condition.

XELJANZ XR should not be used instead of XELJANZ Oral Solution.

Moderate to SevereRheumatoid Arthritis
ActivePsoriatic Arthritis
Moderate to SevereUlcerative Colitis

What are my options?

XELJANZ (5 mg)

How It’s Taken

Twice a day with or without food

How It’s Delivered

Immediate release into the bloodstream over the course of several hours

XELJANZ XR (11 mg)

How It’s Taken

Once a day with or without food^*

How It’s Delivered

Extended release into the bloodstream over the course of a day

^*XELJANZ XR tablets should be swallowed whole and intact. Do not crush, split, or chew.

Note: Pills not actual size

What are my options?

XELJANZ (5 mg)^*

How It’s Taken

Twice a day with or without food

How It’s Delivered

Immediate release into the bloodstream over the course of several hours

XELJANZ XR (11 mg)^*

How It’s Taken

Once a day with or without food^†

How It’s Delivered

Extended release into the bloodstream over the course of a day

^*For active psoriatic arthritis (PsA), XELJANZ and XELJANZ XR should be taken with a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) such as methotrexate.

^†XELJANZ XR tablets should be swallowed whole and intact. Do not crush, split, or chew.

Note: Pills not actual size

What are my options?

XELJANZ (5 mg)^*

How It’s Taken

Twice a day with or without food

How It’s Delivered

Immediate release into the bloodstream over the course of several hours

XELJANZ (10 mg)^*

How It’s Taken

Twice a day with or without food

How It’s Delivered

Immediate release into the bloodstream over the course of several hours

XELJANZ XR (11 mg)^*

How It’s Taken

Once a day with or without food^†

How It’s Delivered

Extended release into the bloodstream over the course of a day

XELJANZ XR (22 mg)^*

How It’s Taken

Once a day with or without food^†

How It’s Delivered

Extended release into the bloodstream over the course of a day

^*For moderate to severe UC, the recommended starting dose of XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR is 10 mg twice daily or 22 mg once daily for 8 weeks. Depending on your doctor’s assessment of your progress, your maintenance dose may be 5 mg or 10 mg twice daily, or 11 mg or 22 mg once a day if you are taking XELJANZ XR. You should use the lowest effective dose to maintain response. Therapy should be discontinued after 16 weeks of 22 mg once daily or 10 mg twice daily if adequate symptom improvement is not achieved.

^†XELJANZ XR tablets should be swallowed whole and intact. Do not crush, split, or chew.

Note: Pills not actual size

Indications

XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR (tofacitinib) is used to treat adults who have tried TNF blockers with:

Moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis when 1 or more medicines called tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blockers have been used, and did not work well or cannot be tolerated
Active psoriatic arthritis when 1 or more tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blocker medicines have been used, and did not work well or cannot be tolerated
Moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis when 1 or more tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blocker medicines have been used, and did not work well or cannot be tolerated
Active ankylosing spondylitis when 1 or more tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blocker medicines have been used, and did not work well or cannot be tolerated

XELJANZ/XELJANZ Oral Solution is used to treat patients 2 years of age and older with:

Active polyarticular course juvenile arthritis when 1 or more tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blocker medicines have been used, and did not work well or cannot be tolerated

It is not known if XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR is safe and effective in people with Hepatitis B or C.

XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR/XELJANZ Oral Solution is not recommended for people with severe liver problems.

It is not known if XELJANZ/XELJANZ Oral Solution is safe and effective in children for treatment other than active polyarticular course juvenile arthritis.

It is not known if XELJANZ XR is safe and effective in children.

XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR (tofacitinib) is used to treat adults who have tried TNF blockers with:

Moderately to severely active rheumatoid » Read More

Important Safety Information

Serious infections. XELJANZ can lower the ability of your immune system to fight infections. Do not start taking XELJANZ if you have any kind of infection unless your healthcare provider tells you it is okay. Serious infections have happened in people taking XELJANZ. These serious infections include tuberculosis (TB) and infections caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses that can spread throughout the body. Some people have died from these infections. Your healthcare provider should test you for TB before starting and during treatment with XELJANZ. You should not start taking XELJANZ if you have any kind of infection unless your healthcare professional tells you it is okay.

Before and after starting XELJANZ, tell your doctor if you are being treated for an infection, have infections that keep coming back, or have symptoms of an infection, including:

fever, sweating, or chills
cough
blood in phlegm
warm, red, or painful skin or sores on your body
burning when you urinate
urinating more often than normal
muscle aches
shortness of breath
weight loss
diarrhea or stomach pain
feeling very tired

Increased risk of death in people 50 years of age and older who have at least 1 heart disease (cardiovascular) risk factor and are taking XELJANZ 5 mg twice daily or XELJANZ 10 mg twice daily.

Cancer. XELJANZ may increase your risk of certain cancers by changing the way your immune system works. Lymphoma and other cancers, including skin cancers, can happen. People taking XELJANZ 5 mg twice daily or XELJANZ 10 mg twice daily have a higher risk of certain cancers including lymphoma and lung cancer, especially if you are a current or past smoker. Tell your healthcare provider if you have ever had any type of cancer.

Higher dose. People with ulcerative colitis taking the higher dose of XELJANZ (10 mg twice daily) or XELJANZ XR (22 mg one time each day) have a higher risk of serious infections, shingles, or skin cancers.

Immune system problem. Some people who have taken XELJANZ with certain other medicines to prevent kidney transplant rejection have had a problem with certain white blood cells growing out of control (Epstein Barr Virus–associated post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder).

Increased risk of major cardiovascular events such as heart attack, stroke or death in people 50 years of age and older who have at least 1 heart disease (cardiovascular) risk factor and are taking XELJANZ 5 mg twice daily or XELJANZ 10 mg twice daily, especially if you are a current or past smoker.

Get emergency help right away if you have any symptoms of a heart attack or stroke while taking XELJANZ, including:

discomfort in the center of your chest that lasts for more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back
severe tightness, pain, pressure, or heaviness in your chest, throat, neck, or jaw
pain or discomfort in your arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach
shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort
breaking out in a cold sweat
nausea or vomiting
feeling lightheaded
weakness in one part or on one side of your body
slurred speech

Blood clots in the lungs (pulmonary embolism, PE), veins of the legs (deep vein thrombosis, DVT), and arteries (arterial thrombosis) have happened more often in people who are 50 years of age and older and with at least 1 heart disease (cardiovascular) risk factor taking XELJANZ 5 mg twice daily or XELJANZ 10 mg twice daily. Blood clots in the lungs have also happened in people with ulcerative colitis. Some people have died from these blood clots.

Stop taking XELJANZ and tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any signs and symptoms of blood clots such as sudden shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, chest pain, swelling of a leg or arm, leg pain or tenderness, or red or discolored skin in the leg or arm.

Tears (perforation) in the stomach or intestines. Tell your healthcare provider if you have had diverticulitis (inflammation in parts of the large intestine) or ulcers in your stomach or intestines. Some people taking XELJANZ can get tears in their stomach or intestine. This happens most often in people who also take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, or methotrexate. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have fever, stomach-area pain that does not go away, and a change in your bowel habits.

Serious allergic reactions can occur. Stop using XELJANZ and call your healthcare provider right away if you have swelling of your lips, tongue, throat, or get hives.

Changes in certain lab test results. Your doctor should do blood tests to check your white and red blood cells before starting and while you are taking XELJANZ. Your doctor should also check certain liver tests. You should not take XELJANZ if your lymphocyte count, neutrophil count, or red blood cell count is too low or your liver function test levels are too high. Changes in lab test results may cause your healthcare provider to stop your XELJANZ treatment for a time. Your cholesterol levels should be checked 4 to 8 weeks after you start receiving XELJANZ.

Before you use XELJANZ, tell your healthcare provider if you:

Are being treated for an infection, have an infection that won’t go away or keeps coming back, or think you have symptoms of an infection
Have TB, or have been in close contact with someone with TB, or were born in, lived in, or traveled where there is more risk for getting TB
Have diabetes, chronic lung disease, HIV, or a weak immune system. People with these conditions have a higher chance for infections
Live or have lived in certain areas (such as Ohio and Mississippi River Valleys and the Southwest) where there is an increased chance for getting certain kinds of fungal infections
Have or have had Hepatitis B or C
Are a current or past smoker
Have had any type of cancer
Have had a heart attack, other heart problems or stroke
Have had blood clots
Have liver or kidney problems
Have any stomach area (abdominal) pain or been diagnosed with diverticulitis or ulcers in your stomach or intestines
Have recently received or plan to receive a vaccine. People taking XELJANZ should not receive live vaccines but can receive non-live vaccines
Are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to breastfeed. You should not take XELJANZ and breastfeed
Have had a reaction to tofacitinib or any of the ingredients
Are taking other medicines, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Especially tell your healthcare provider if you take any of the following medicines while taking XELJANZ since this may increase your risk of infection:
- tocilizumab (Actemra^®)
- etanercept (Enbrel^®)
- adalimumab (Humira^®)
- infliximab (Remicade^®)
- rituximab (Rituxan^®)
- abatacept (Orencia^®)
- anakinra (Kineret^®)
- certolizumab (Cimzia^®)
- golimumab (Simponi^®)
- ustekinumab (Stelara^®)
- secukinumab (Cosentyx^®)
- vedolizumab (Entyvio^®)
- ixekizumab (Taltz^®)
- sarilumab (Kevzara^®)
- azathioprine, cyclosporine, or other immunosuppressive drugs
Tell your healthcare provider if you are taking medicines that affect the way certain liver enzymes work. Ask your healthcare provider if you are not sure if your medicine is one of these.

What are other possible side effects of XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR?

If you are a carrier of the Hepatitis B or C virus (viruses that affect the liver), the virus may become active while you use XELJANZ. Your healthcare provider may do blood tests before starting and while using treatment with XELJANZ. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any signs of these symptoms: feel very tired, little or no appetite, clay-colored bowel movements, chills, muscle aches, skin rash, skin or eyes look yellow, vomiting, fevers, stomach discomfort, or dark urine.

Common side effects in people with rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis include upper respiratory tract infections (common cold, sinus infections), headache, diarrhea, nasal congestion, sore throat, runny nose (nasopharyngitis), and high blood pressure (hypertension).

Common side effects in people with ulcerative colitis include nasal congestion, sore throat, runny nose (nasopharyngitis), increased cholesterol levels, headache, upper respiratory tract infections (common cold, sinus infections), increased muscle enzyme levels, rash, diarrhea, and shingles (herpes zoster).

Common side effects in children (2 & older) with polyarticular course juvenile arthritis include upper respiratory tract infections (common cold, sinus infections), nasal congestion, sore throat, and runny nose (nasopharyngitis), headache, fever, nausea, and vomiting.

XELJANZ & Pregnancy

XELJANZ may affect the ability of females to get pregnant. It is not known if this will change after stopping XELJANZ. It is not known if XELJANZ will harm an unborn baby.

Pregnancy Registry: Pfizer has a registry for pregnant women who take XELJANZ. The purpose of this registry is to check the health of the pregnant mother and her baby. If you are pregnant or become pregnant while taking XELJANZ, talk to your healthcare provider about how you can join this pregnancy registry or you may contact the registry at 1-877-311-8972 to enroll.

You and your healthcare provider should decide if you will take XELJANZ or breastfeed. You should not do both. After you stop your treatment with XELJANZ do not start breastfeeding again until 18 hours after your last dose of XELJANZ or 36 hours after your last dose of XELJANZ XR.

The safety information above applies to all marketed formulations of XELJANZ. Specific risks associated with certain dosing are noted.

Please see full Prescribing Information, including BOXED WARNING and Medication Guide.

Indications

XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR (tofacitinib) is used to treat adults who have tried TNF blockers with:

Moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis when 1 or more medicines called tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blockers have been used, and did not work well or cannot be tolerated
Active psoriatic arthritis when 1 or more tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blocker medicines have been used, and did not work well or cannot be tolerated
Moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis when 1 or more tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blocker medicines have been used, and did not work well or cannot be tolerated
Active ankylosing spondylitis when 1 or more tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blocker medicines have been used, and did not work well or cannot be tolerated

XELJANZ/XELJANZ Oral Solution is used to treat patients 2 years of age and older with:

Active polyarticular course juvenile arthritis when 1 or more tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blocker medicines have been used, and did not work well or cannot be tolerated

It is not known if XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR is safe and effective in people with Hepatitis B or C.

XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR/XELJANZ Oral Solution is not recommended for people with severe liver problems.

It is not known if XELJANZ/XELJANZ Oral Solution is safe and effective in children for treatment other than active polyarticular course juvenile arthritis.

It is not known if XELJANZ XR is safe and effective in children.

XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR (tofacitinib) is used to treat adults who have tried TNF blockers with:

Moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis when 1 or more medicines called tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blockers have...Read More

XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR (tofacitinib) is used to treat adults who have tried TNF blockers with:

Moderately to severely active rheumatoid » Read More

Important Safety Information

Serious infections. XELJANZ can lower the ability of your immune system to fight infections. Do not start taking XELJANZ if you have any kind of infection unless your healthcare provider tells you it is okay. Serious infections have happened in people taking XELJANZ. These serious infections include tuberculosis (TB) and infections caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses that can spread throughout the body. Some people have died from these infections. Your healthcare provider should test you for TB before starting and during treatment with XELJANZ. You should not start taking XELJANZ if you have any kind of infection unless your healthcare professional tells you it is okay.

Before and after starting XELJANZ, tell your doctor if you are being treated for an infection, have infections that keep coming back, or have symptoms of an infection, including:

fever, sweating, or chills
cough
blood in phlegm
warm, red, or painful skin or sores on your body
burning when you urinate
urinating more often than normal
muscle aches
shortness of breath
weight loss
diarrhea or stomach pain
feeling very tired

Increased risk of death in people 50 years of age and older who have at least 1 heart disease (cardiovascular) risk factor and are taking XELJANZ 5 mg twice daily or XELJANZ 10 mg twice daily.

Cancer. XELJANZ may increase your risk of certain cancers by changing the way your immune system works. Lymphoma and other cancers, including skin cancers, can happen. People taking XELJANZ 5 mg twice daily or XELJANZ 10 mg twice daily have a higher risk of certain cancers including lymphoma and lung cancer, especially if you are a current or past smoker. Tell your healthcare provider if you have ever had any type of cancer.

Higher dose. People with ulcerative colitis taking the higher dose of XELJANZ (10 mg twice daily) or XELJANZ XR (22 mg one time each day) have a higher risk of serious infections, shingles, or skin cancers.

Immune system problem. Some people who have taken XELJANZ with certain other medicines to prevent kidney transplant rejection have had a problem with certain white blood cells growing out of control (Epstein Barr Virus–associated post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder).

Increased risk of major cardiovascular events such as heart attack, stroke or death in people 50 years of age and older who have at least 1 heart disease (cardiovascular) risk factor and are taking XELJANZ 5 mg twice daily or XELJANZ 10 mg twice daily, especially if you are a current or past smoker.

Get emergency help right away if you have any symptoms of a heart attack or stroke while taking XELJANZ, including:

discomfort in the center of your chest that lasts for more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back
severe tightness, pain, pressure, or heaviness in your chest, throat, neck, or jaw
pain or discomfort in your arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach
shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort
breaking out in a cold sweat
nausea or vomiting
feeling lightheaded
weakness in one part or on one side of your body
slurred speech

Blood clots in the lungs (pulmonary embolism, PE), veins of the legs (deep vein thrombosis, DVT), and arteries (arterial thrombosis) have happened more often in people who are 50 years of age and older and with at least 1 heart disease (cardiovascular) risk factor taking XELJANZ 5 mg twice daily or XELJANZ 10 mg twice daily. Blood clots in the lungs have also happened in people with ulcerative colitis. Some people have died from these blood clots.

Stop taking XELJANZ and tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any signs and symptoms of blood clots such as sudden shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, chest pain, swelling of a leg or arm, leg pain or tenderness, or red or discolored skin in the leg or arm.

Tears (perforation) in the stomach or intestines. Tell your healthcare provider if you have had diverticulitis (inflammation in parts of the large intestine) or ulcers in your stomach or intestines. Some people taking XELJANZ can get tears in their stomach or intestine. This happens most often in people who also take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, or methotrexate. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have fever, stomach-area pain that does not go away, and a change in your bowel habits.

Serious allergic reactions can occur. Stop using XELJANZ and call your healthcare provider right away if you have swelling of your lips, tongue, throat, or get hives.

Changes in certain lab test results. Your doctor should do blood tests to check your white and red blood cells before starting and while you are taking XELJANZ. Your doctor should also check certain liver tests. You should not take XELJANZ if your lymphocyte count, neutrophil count, or red blood cell count is too low or your liver function test levels are too high. Changes in lab test results may cause your healthcare provider to stop your XELJANZ treatment for a time. Your cholesterol levels should be checked 4 to 8 weeks after you start receiving XELJANZ.

Before you use XELJANZ, tell your healthcare provider if you:

Are being treated for an infection, have an infection that won’t go away or keeps coming back, or think you have symptoms of an infection
Have TB, or have been in close contact with someone with TB, or were born in, lived in, or traveled where there is more risk for getting TB
Have diabetes, chronic lung disease, HIV, or a weak immune system. People with these conditions have a higher chance for infections
Live or have lived in certain areas (such as Ohio and Mississippi River Valleys and the Southwest) where there is an increased chance for getting certain kinds of fungal infections
Have or have had Hepatitis B or C
Are a current or past smoker
Have had any type of cancer
Have had a heart attack, other heart problems or stroke
Have had blood clots
Have liver or kidney problems
Have any stomach area (abdominal) pain or been diagnosed with diverticulitis or ulcers in your stomach or intestines
Have recently received or plan to receive a vaccine. People taking XELJANZ should not receive live vaccines but can receive non-live vaccines
Are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to breastfeed. You should not take XELJANZ and breastfeed
Have had a reaction to tofacitinib or any of the ingredients
Are taking other medicines, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Especially tell your healthcare provider if you take any of the following medicines while taking XELJANZ since this may increase your risk of infection:
- tocilizumab (Actemra^®)
- etanercept (Enbrel^®)
- adalimumab (Humira^®)
- infliximab (Remicade^®)
- rituximab (Rituxan^®)
- abatacept (Orencia^®)
- anakinra (Kineret^®)
- certolizumab (Cimzia^®)
- golimumab (Simponi^®)
- ustekinumab (Stelara^®)
- secukinumab (Cosentyx^®)
- vedolizumab (Entyvio^®)
- ixekizumab (Taltz^®)
- sarilumab (Kevzara^®)
- azathioprine, cyclosporine, or other immunosuppressive drugs
Tell your healthcare provider if you are taking medicines that affect the way certain liver enzymes work. Ask your healthcare provider if you are not sure if your medicine is one of these.

What are other possible side effects of XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR?

If you are a carrier of the Hepatitis B or C virus (viruses that affect the liver), the virus may become active while you use XELJANZ. Your healthcare provider may do blood tests before starting and while using treatment with XELJANZ. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any signs of these symptoms: feel very tired, little or no appetite, clay-colored bowel movements, chills, muscle aches, skin rash, skin or eyes look yellow, vomiting, fevers, stomach discomfort, or dark urine.

Common side effects in people with rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis include upper respiratory tract infections (common cold, sinus infections), headache, diarrhea, nasal congestion, sore throat, runny nose (nasopharyngitis), and high blood pressure (hypertension).

Common side effects in people with ulcerative colitis include nasal congestion, sore throat, runny nose (nasopharyngitis), increased cholesterol levels, headache, upper respiratory tract infections (common cold, sinus infections), increased muscle enzyme levels, rash, diarrhea, and shingles (herpes zoster).

Common side effects in children (2 & older) with polyarticular course juvenile arthritis include upper respiratory tract infections (common cold, sinus infections), nasal congestion, sore throat, and runny nose (nasopharyngitis), headache, fever, nausea, and vomiting.

XELJANZ & Pregnancy

XELJANZ may affect the ability of females to get pregnant. It is not known if this will change after stopping XELJANZ. It is not known if XELJANZ will harm an unborn baby.

Pregnancy Registry: Pfizer has a registry for pregnant women who take XELJANZ. The purpose of this registry is to check the health of the pregnant mother and her baby. If you are pregnant or become pregnant while taking XELJANZ, talk to your healthcare provider about how you can join this pregnancy registry or you may contact the registry at 1-877-311-8972 to enroll.

You and your healthcare provider should decide if you will take XELJANZ or breastfeed. You should not do both. After you stop your treatment with XELJANZ do not start breastfeeding again until 18 hours after your last dose of XELJANZ or 36 hours after your last dose of XELJANZ XR.

The safety information above applies to all marketed formulations of XELJANZ. Specific risks associated with certain dosing are noted.

Please see full Prescribing Information, including BOXED WARNING and Medication Guide.

Indications

XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR (tofacitinib) is used to treat adults who have tried TNF blockers with:

Moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis when 1 or more medicines called tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blockers have been used, and did not work well or cannot be tolerated
Active psoriatic arthritis when 1 or more tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blocker medicines have been used, and did not work well or cannot be tolerated
Moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis when 1 or more tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blocker medicines have been used, and did not work well or cannot be tolerated
Active ankylosing spondylitis when 1 or more tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blocker medicines have been used, and did not work well or cannot be tolerated

XELJANZ/XELJANZ Oral Solution is used to treat patients 2 years of age and older with:

Active polyarticular course juvenile arthritis when 1 or more tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blocker medicines have been used, and did not work well or cannot be tolerated

It is not known if XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR is safe and effective in people with Hepatitis B or C.

XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR/XELJANZ Oral Solution is not recommended for people with severe liver problems.

It is not known if XELJANZ/XELJANZ Oral Solution is safe and effective in children for treatment other than active polyarticular course juvenile arthritis.

It is not known if XELJANZ XR is safe and effective in children.

Important Safety Information

Serious infections. XELJANZ can lower the ability of your immune system to fight infections. Do not start taking XELJANZ if you have any kind of infection unless your healthcare provider tells you it is okay. Serious infections have happened in people taking XELJANZ. These serious infections include tuberculosis (TB) and infections caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses that can spread throughout the body. Some people have died from these infections. Your healthcare provider should test you for TB before starting and during treatment with XELJANZ. You should not start taking XELJANZ if you have any kind of infection unless your healthcare professional tells you it is okay.

Before and after starting XELJANZ, tell your doctor if you are being treated for an infection, have infections that keep coming back, or have symptoms of an infection, including:

fever, sweating, or chills
cough
blood in phlegm
warm, red, or painful skin or sores on your body
burning when you urinate
urinating more often than normal
muscle aches
shortness of breath
weight loss
diarrhea or stomach pain
feeling very tired

Increased risk of death in people 50 years of age and older who have at least 1 heart disease (cardiovascular) risk factor and are taking XELJANZ 5 mg twice daily or XELJANZ 10 mg twice daily.

Cancer. XELJANZ may increase your risk of certain cancers by changing the way your immune system works. Lymphoma and other cancers, including skin cancers, can happen. People taking XELJANZ 5 mg twice daily or XELJANZ 10 mg twice daily have a higher risk of certain cancers including lymphoma and lung cancer, especially if you are a current or past smoker. Tell your healthcare provider if you have ever had any type of cancer.

Higher dose. People with ulcerative colitis taking the higher dose of XELJANZ (10 mg twice daily) or XELJANZ XR (22 mg one time each day) have a higher risk of serious infections, shingles, or skin cancers.

Immune system problem. Some people who have taken XELJANZ with certain other medicines to prevent kidney transplant rejection have had a problem with certain white blood cells growing out of control (Epstein Barr Virus–associated post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder).

Increased risk of major cardiovascular events such as heart attack, stroke or death in people 50 years of age and older who have at least 1 heart disease (cardiovascular) risk factor and are taking XELJANZ 5 mg twice daily or XELJANZ 10 mg twice daily, especially if you are a current or past smoker.

Get emergency help right away if you have any symptoms of a heart attack or stroke while taking XELJANZ, including:

discomfort in the center of your chest that lasts for more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back
severe tightness, pain, pressure, or heaviness in your chest, throat, neck, or jaw
pain or discomfort in your arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach
shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort
breaking out in a cold sweat
nausea or vomiting
feeling lightheaded
weakness in one part or on one side of your body
slurred speech

Blood clots in the lungs (pulmonary embolism, PE), veins of the legs (deep vein thrombosis, DVT), and arteries (arterial thrombosis) have happened more often in people who are 50 years of age and older and with at least 1 heart disease (cardiovascular) risk factor taking XELJANZ 5 mg twice daily or XELJANZ 10 mg twice daily. Blood clots in the lungs have also happened in people with ulcerative colitis. Some people have died from these blood clots.

Stop taking XELJANZ and tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any signs and symptoms of blood clots such as sudden shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, chest pain, swelling of a leg or arm, leg pain or tenderness, or red or discolored skin in the leg or arm.

Tears (perforation) in the stomach or intestines. Tell your healthcare provider if you have had diverticulitis (inflammation in parts of the large intestine) or ulcers in your stomach or intestines. Some people taking XELJANZ can get tears in their stomach or intestine. This happens most often in people who also take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, or methotrexate. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have fever, stomach-area pain that does not go away, and a change in your bowel habits.

Serious allergic reactions can occur. Stop using XELJANZ and call your healthcare provider right away if you have swelling of your lips, tongue, throat, or get hives.

Changes in certain lab test results. Your doctor should do blood tests to check your white and red blood cells before starting and while you are taking XELJANZ. Your doctor should also check certain liver tests. You should not take XELJANZ if your lymphocyte count, neutrophil count, or red blood cell count is too low or your liver function test levels are too high. Changes in lab test results may cause your healthcare provider to stop your XELJANZ treatment for a time. Your cholesterol levels should be checked 4 to 8 weeks after you start receiving XELJANZ.

Before you use XELJANZ, tell your healthcare provider if you:

Are being treated for an infection, have an infection that won’t go away or keeps coming back, or think you have symptoms of an infection
Have TB, or have been in close contact with someone with TB, or were born in, lived in, or traveled where there is more risk for getting TB
Have diabetes, chronic lung disease, HIV, or a weak immune system. People with these conditions have a higher chance for infections
Live or have lived in certain areas (such as Ohio and Mississippi River Valleys and the Southwest) where there is an increased chance for getting certain kinds of fungal infections
Have or have had Hepatitis B or C
Are a current or past smoker
Have had any type of cancer
Have had a heart attack, other heart problems or stroke
Have had blood clots
Have liver or kidney problems
Have any stomach area (abdominal) pain or been diagnosed with diverticulitis or ulcers in your stomach or intestines
Have recently received or plan to receive a vaccine. People taking XELJANZ should not receive live vaccines but can receive non-live vaccines
Are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to breastfeed. You should not take XELJANZ and breastfeed
Have had a reaction to tofacitinib or any of the ingredients
Are taking other medicines, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Especially tell your healthcare provider if you take any of the following medicines while taking XELJANZ since this may increase your risk of infection:
- tocilizumab (Actemra^®)
- etanercept (Enbrel^®)
- adalimumab (Humira^®)
- infliximab (Remicade^®)
- rituximab (Rituxan^®)
- abatacept (Orencia^®)
- anakinra (Kineret^®)
- certolizumab (Cimzia^®)
- golimumab (Simponi^®)
- ustekinumab (Stelara^®)
- secukinumab (Cosentyx^®)
- vedolizumab (Entyvio^®)
- ixekizumab (Taltz^®)
- sarilumab (Kevzara^®)
- azathioprine, cyclosporine, or other immunosuppressive drugs
Tell your healthcare provider if you are taking medicines that affect the way certain liver enzymes work. Ask your healthcare provider if you are not sure if your medicine is one of these.

What are other possible side effects of XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR?

If you are a carrier of the Hepatitis B or C virus (viruses that affect the liver), the virus may become active while you use XELJANZ. Your healthcare provider may do blood tests before starting and while using treatment with XELJANZ. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any signs of these symptoms: feel very tired, little or no appetite, clay-colored bowel movements, chills, muscle aches, skin rash, skin or eyes look yellow, vomiting, fevers, stomach discomfort, or dark urine.

Common side effects in people with rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis include upper respiratory tract infections (common cold, sinus infections), headache, diarrhea, nasal congestion, sore throat, runny nose (nasopharyngitis), and high blood pressure (hypertension).

Common side effects in people with ulcerative colitis include nasal congestion, sore throat, runny nose (nasopharyngitis), increased cholesterol levels, headache, upper respiratory tract infections (common cold, sinus infections), increased muscle enzyme levels, rash, diarrhea, and shingles (herpes zoster).

Common side effects in children (2 & older) with polyarticular course juvenile arthritis include upper respiratory tract infections (common cold, sinus infections), nasal congestion, sore throat, and runny nose (nasopharyngitis), headache, fever, nausea, and vomiting.

XELJANZ & Pregnancy

XELJANZ may affect the ability of females to get pregnant. It is not known if this will change after stopping XELJANZ. It is not known if XELJANZ will harm an unborn baby.

Pregnancy Registry: Pfizer has a registry for pregnant women who take XELJANZ. The purpose of this registry is to check the health of the pregnant mother and her baby. If you are pregnant or become pregnant while taking XELJANZ, talk to your healthcare provider about how you can join this pregnancy registry or you may contact the registry at 1-877-311-8972 to enroll.

You and your healthcare provider should decide if you will take XELJANZ or breastfeed. You should not do both. After you stop your treatment with XELJANZ do not start breastfeeding again until 18 hours after your last dose of XELJANZ or 36 hours after your last dose of XELJANZ XR.

The safety information above applies to all marketed formulations of XELJANZ. Specific risks associated with certain dosing are noted.

Please see full Prescribing Information, including BOXED WARNING and Medication Guide.

Pay as little as $0 per month for your XELJANZ prescription*

Eligibility required. Annual savings of $6,000–$15,000. Federal and state healthcare beneficiaries ineligible. No membership fee. Offer not valid for cash paying patients. Terms and conditions apply.

Eligibility required. Annual savings of $6,000–$15,000. Federal and state healthcare beneficiaries ineligible. No membership fee. Offer not valid for cash paying patients. Terms and conditions apply.

Sign Up