{"id":48082,"date":"2022-01-18T08:48:42","date_gmt":"2022-01-18T13:48:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/?p=48082"},"modified":"2026-04-06T14:04:57","modified_gmt":"2026-04-06T18:04:57","slug":"xeljanz-side-effects","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/xeljanz-side-effects\/","title":{"rendered":"Xeljanz side effects"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"#commonsideeffects\">Common Xeljanz side effects<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">| <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"#serioussideeffects\">Serious side effects<\/a><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> | <a href=\"#infection\">Infection<\/a> | <a href=\"#malignancies\">Malignancies<\/a> | <a href=\"#bloodproblems\">Blood problems<\/a> | <a href=\"#cholesterol\">Cholesterol<\/a>\u00a0|<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<a href=\"#howlong\">How long do side effects last? <\/a> | <a href=\"#warnings\">Warnings<\/a> | <a href=\"#interactions\">Interactions<\/a> | <a href=\"#howtoavoid\">How to avoid side effects <\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is a <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">brand-name<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> prescription drug used to treat autoimmune conditions in which the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">immune system<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> overreacts and attacks healthy cells, causing inflammation, pain, and tissue damage. It is approved to treat <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">rheumatoid <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/conditions\/arthritis-treatment-and-medications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">arthritis<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">psoriatic arthritis<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, ankylosing spondylitis, polyarticular <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">juvenile idiopathic arthritis<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/conditions\/ulcerative-colitis-treatment-and-medications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ulcerative colitis<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tofacitinib<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, the active ingredient in <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, works by disrupting key cellular processes involved with inflammation.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and its <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">extended-release<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> formulation, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/xeljanz-xr\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> XR<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, have several <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">side effects<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, some of which can be serious. People taking <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> should be familiar with these <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">side effects<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> as well as other possible problems before taking this medicine.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"commonsideeffects\">Common side effects of Xeljanz<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The most <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">common side effects<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> of Xeljanz <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.accessdata.fda.gov\/drugsatfda_docs\/label\/2021\/203214s028,208246s013,213082s003lbl.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">include<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Elevated cholesterol levels<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Upper respiratory tract infections<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nasal congestion, runny nose, and <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">sore throat<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Skin rash<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Headache<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Diarrhea<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nausea<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vomiting\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fever<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">High blood pressure<\/span><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pdr.net\/drug-summary\/Xeljanz-Xeljanz-XR-tofacitinib-2716\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Acne<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"serioussideeffects\">Serious side effects of Xeljanz<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The most <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">serious side effects of Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Severe infections, including tuberculosis\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Malignancies,<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> including <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">lymphoma<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and non-melanoma <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">skin cancers<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Low <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">white blood cell<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> counts<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tears in the stomach or intestines (gastrointestinal <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">perforation<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">)<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Blood clots<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Anemia<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Increased risk of heart attack or stroke <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">in people over 50 years old with heart disease risk factors<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Increased risk of death in people over 50 years old with heart disease risk factors\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Severe <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">allergic reactions<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 id=\"infection\">Xeljanz and infection<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> suppresses the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">immune system<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, which can leave people more vulnerable to infections. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/dailymed.nlm.nih.gov\/dailymed\/drugInfo.cfm?setid=cf74ba2f-afc5-4baa-8594-979c889a5831#S8.7\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">clinical trials<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, approximately 20% of people taking <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> experienced infections while 18% of people taking a placebo experienced infections. The most commonly experienced infections include <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">upper respiratory tract infections<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">urinary tract infections<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. The most serious infections include pneumonia, diverticulitis, and appendicitis.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There is also a risk for reactivation of latent infections, such as <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">hepatitis B<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or varicella (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/conditions\/shingles-treatment-and-medications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">shingles<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). In addition, there have been reports of people experiencing <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pdr.net\/drug-summary\/Xeljanz-Xeljanz-XR-tofacitinib-2716\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">opportunistic infections<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> such as tuberculosis, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/conditions\/herpes-treatment-and-medications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">herpes zoster<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, histoplasmosis, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/conditions\/yeast-infection-treatment-and-medications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">candidiasis<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and others. People taking <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> should carefully watch for signs of infection and report any signs or symptoms to a <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">healthcare provider<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"malignancies\">Xeljanz and malignancies<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">immune system<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is often the first line of defense against cancerous cells. As an <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">immunosuppressant<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> may increase the risk for cancer. People taking <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/xeljanz\/dosage\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span> <\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">may be at an <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">increased risk<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pdr.net\/drug-summary\/Xeljanz-Xeljanz-XR-tofacitinib-2716\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">non-melanoma <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">skin cancer<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Other types of cancers experienced with Xeljanz include lung, breast, gastric, colorectal, and prostate cancer. The most concerning <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">types of cancer<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> reported are <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">lymphoma<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and, in people taking <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> after a <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">kidney transplant<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, a type of <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">lymphoma<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> associated with <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Epstein-Barr<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Virus infection. People prescribed <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> may be advised to regularly check their skin for any changes and report any signs that may indicate cancer.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"bloodproblems\">Xeljanz and blood problems<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">White blood cells<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are the body\u2019s primary defense against infections and cancers. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can suppress bone marrow, resulting in a reduction of <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">white blood cells<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, red blood cells, and hemoglobin. In particular, <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can cause a drop in two types of <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">white blood cells<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: neutrophils and <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">lymphocytes<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. For this reason, people taking <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> should have regular <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">blood tests<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. If <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">white blood cell<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> counts or hemoglobin drops too low, doses may be reduced or <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> may be discontinued altogether.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"cholesterol\">Xeljanz and cholesterol<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">clinical trials<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> raised both LDL and HDL <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">cholesterol levels, which<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> peaked in about one month to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pdr.net\/drug-summary\/Xeljanz-Xeljanz-XR-tofacitinib-2716\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">six weeks<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> after starting treatment. The overall impact on cardiovascular health and mortality has not been determined. People with <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/conditions\/high-cholesterol-treatment-and-medications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">high cholesterol<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or high triglycerides may need to be monitored while taking<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Most people will have <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">blood tests<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> after <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pdr.net\/drug-summary\/Xeljanz-Xeljanz-XR-tofacitinib-2716\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">one or two months<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to assess <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">cholesterol levels<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"howlong\">How long do Xeljanz side effects last?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">S<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ide effects<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> like headaches, nausea, rash, and diarrhea should improve as the body adjusts to the medication.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Serious side effects, like infections, often need treatment to resolve. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Serious infections<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">malignancies<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> may require weeks or months of medical treatment.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Infections are still a risk even when <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> has been discontinued. It could take the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">immune system<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> up to six weeks to return to normal after <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> has been discontinued.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">serious side effects<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, such as gastrointestinal tears and <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">blood clots<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, may require emergency medical treatment and could have lifelong complications.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"warnings\">Xeljanz contraindications and warnings<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz,<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> like all <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">immunosuppressants,<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can cause serious problems, particularly infections. Some people may be at more risk than others.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">People with an active infection or those who have recently had a live vaccine should avoid using Xeljanz. People who are at risk of a gastrointestinal tear should use Xeljanz with caution.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Abuse and dependence<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The U.S. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Food and Drug Administration<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FDA<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) does not consider <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">tofacitinib<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> a drug with a potential for abuse or physical dependence.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Overdose<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Taking too much <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> increases the risk for <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">side effects<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. If too much <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is taken, talk to a <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">healthcare professional<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or get emergency medical treatment.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Restrictions<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">T<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">he <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FDA<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> has attached a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/online.epocrates.com\/drugs\/651411\/Xeljanz\/Black-Box-Warnings\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">black <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">box warning<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in regard to <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">serious infections<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, cancers, <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">blood clots<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and an increased risk of death in certain people. People with specific pre-existing conditions may be recommended to monitor or avoid the use of Xeljanz in order to reduce the risk of serious side effects.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Contraindications include:<\/span><b><\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Hypersensitivity to <\/b><b>Xeljanz<\/b><\/li>\n<li><b>Low <\/b><b>lymphocyte<\/b><b> counts, low neutrophil counts, or low hemoglobin: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Because <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> suppresses bone marrow, it can lower two types of <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">white blood cells<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (neutrophils and <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">lymphocytes<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) as well as red blood cells. People who are deficient in <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">white blood cells<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or red blood cells should not <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">take Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Active infection: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tofacitinib<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> weakens the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">immune system<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, so people with an active infection should not start treatment with Xeljanz.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Risks for <\/b><b>blood clots<\/b><b>: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The risk for serious <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">blood clot<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> problems such as <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/conditions\/deep-vein-thrombosis-treatment-and-medications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">deep vein thrombosis<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">pulmonary embolism<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and arterial thrombosis increases when people take <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">JAK<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">inhibitors<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, a family of drugs that includes <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. People at risk for <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">blood clots<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> may be recommended not to <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">take Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Severe liver disease: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Because <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">tofacitinib<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is broken down by the liver, people with severe hepatic impairment cannot safely <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">take Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some people may have pre-existing conditions that increase the risks associated with <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> treatment, but they can still take the drug. Doses may be reduced in some cases, but in all cases, <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">healthcare professionals<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> will monitor the person more carefully for problems. People with certain risk factors may need to use Xeljanz with caution:<\/span><b><\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Risk of infection<\/b><b>: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are a number of risk factors for developing <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">serious infections<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. These include older age, a history of infections, latent infections, travel to parts of the world where infection (like tuberculosis) is a risk, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/conditions\/diabetes-treatment-and-medications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">diabetes<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and interstitial <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">lung disease<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. People at risk for infection can <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">take Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, but they will need to carefully watch for signs of an infection.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Risk of cancer: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Drugs like Xeljanz suppress the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">immune system<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and increase the risk of cancer. People at risk for cancer will need to be vigilant for signs of cancer. Most patients will be asked to periodically check their skin or get a regular checkup for any unusual changes.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Risk of cardiovascular disease: <\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/dailymed.nlm.nih.gov\/dailymed\/drugInfo.cfm?setid=cf74ba2f-afc5-4baa-8594-979c889a5831\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In clinical <\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">trials, people older than the age of 50 who had at least one <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">risk factor<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for cardiovascular disease had a higher mortality rate than other people. Regular monitoring is required for people who have <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">risk factors<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for cardiovascular disease, such as previous <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">heart attack<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">heart problems<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/conditions\/blood-pressure-treatment-and-medications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">high blood pressure<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, or high cholesterol.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Risk of stomach or intestinal tears: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stomach or intestinal tears (gastrointestinal <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">perforation<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) are a serious adverse reaction associated with <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, so people at risk for gastrointestinal tears will need close monitoring. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Risk factors<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> include chronic use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/drug-classes\/nsaids\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">NSAIDs<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) or a history of <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">diverticulitis<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Liver or kidney problems: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Both the liver and kidneys are responsible for clearing <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">tofacitinib<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> from the body. If they\u2019re not functioning well, <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">tofacitinib<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> concentrations in the blood can increase, raising the risk of <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">side effects<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. People with moderate to severe renal impairment or moderate hepatic impairment may take lower doses than usual.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pregnancy and nursing<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can be prescribed to pregnant women. There is no information on how <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">tofacitinib<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> affects a human fetus or the course of pregnancy. In <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/dailymed.nlm.nih.gov\/dailymed\/drugInfo.cfm?setid=cf74ba2f-afc5-4baa-8594-979c889a5831\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">animal studies<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, however, <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">tofacitinib<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> did cause birth defects and fetal death at high doses. Women who are not pregnant but are of reproductive age may be encouraged to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/online.epocrates.com\/drugs\/651413\/Xeljanz\/Pregnancy-Lactation\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">use birth control<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> until four weeks after <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is discontinued.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz may be present in breast milk. Women on <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> should not <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">breastfeed<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> until at least 18 hours have passed since the last <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">dose of Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or 36 hours after the last <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">dose of Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> XR has been taken.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Children<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FDA<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">-approved to treat polyarticular course <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">juvenile idiopathic arthritis<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (pcJIA) in children as young as 2 years of age. Common side effects of Xeljanz when treating pcJIA include upper respiratory tract infections, nasal congestion, sore throat, runny nose, headache, fever, nausea, and vomiting.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Seniors<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">People aged 65 years and older who are taking <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are more likely to experience infections than younger adults. When prescribed <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, older patients may require close monitoring for infection.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"interactions\">Xeljanz interactions<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> works by suppressing the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">immune system<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, so its most significant <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/online.epocrates.com\/drugs\/651404\/Xeljanz\/Drug-Interactions\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">drug interactions<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> involve drugs that also suppress the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">immune system<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. However, several drugs block the ability of the liver to break down <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">tofacitinib<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, so taking these drugs may require <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> dosage adjustments.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Live vaccines<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Live vaccines<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are normally safe when given to healthy patients, but can cause <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">serious infections<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in people taking <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">immunosuppressants<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, so they are never given to anyone taking <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Biologic DMARDs: <\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/drug-classes\/monoclonal-antibodies\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Monoclonal antibodies<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, such as <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/humira\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Humira<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (adalimumab), Orencia (<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">abatacept<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/enbrel\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Enbrel<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (etanercept), treat <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">rheumatoid arthritis<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and other autoimmune disorders by suppressing the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">immune system<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> just like <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Also called biologic DMARDs (as opposed to non-biologic DMARDs like <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), these drugs are generally avoided in people taking <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Immunosuppressive<\/b><b> drugs: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There is an increased risk of infections and cancer when combining <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> with other <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">immunosuppressive<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> drugs.. Certain immunosuppressive drugs, such as <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/azathioprine\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">azathioprine<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/cyclosporine\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">cyclosporine<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, are used to treat <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">rheumatoid arthritis<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">psoriatic arthritis<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ulcerative colitis<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, but <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">healthcare professionals<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> avoid combining them with <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/methotrexate\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Methotrexate<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is an exception as it is sometimes used with <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>CYP3A4 <\/b><b>inhibitors<\/b><b>: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">CYP3A4 <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">inhibitors<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are drugs that can block the ability of the liver to process <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. The liver breaks down about <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/dailymed.nlm.nih.gov\/dailymed\/drugInfo.cfm?setid=cf74ba2f-afc5-4baa-8594-979c889a5831\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">70%<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> of a dose of Xeljanz using an <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">enzyme<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> called CYP3A4. Some drugs block that <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">enzyme<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> from working properly, so they\u2019re called CYP3A4 <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">inhibitors<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. With this <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">enzyme<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> blocked, <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can accumulate in the blood, increasing the risk and severity of adverse effects. A doctor or healthcare provider may prescribe a low <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">dose of Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to people who are taking a strong or moderate CYP3A4 <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">inhibitor<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>CYP3A4 inducers:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> CYP3A4 inducers are drugs that can increase the processing of tofacitinib in the liver. Taking these drugs with Xeljanz may decrease the effectiveness of Xeljanz. Examples of CYP3A4 inducers include rifampin, phenobarbital, and phenytoin.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"howtoavoid\">How to avoid Xeljanz side effects<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many side effects<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> of Xeljanz can be bothersome, but some can be serious. Here are a few tips to avoid <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">side effects<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and serious complications from Xeljanz.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1. Tell the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">prescribing<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">healthcare provider<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> about all medical conditions<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Most of the risks and <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">side effects of Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can be attributed to certain risk factors, so make sure to give the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">prescribing<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">healthcare provider<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> a complete medical history, particularly:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Past or present infections, including:<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tuberculosis or exposure to tuberculosis<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hepatitis B<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/conditions\/hepatitis-c-treatment-and-medications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">hepatitis C infection<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">HIV infection<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Diverticulitis<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A weakened <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">immune system<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Diabetes<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chronic <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">lung disease<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">B<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">lood clot<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">s<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/conditions\/ulcer-treatment-and-medications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stomach or intestinal ulcers<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stomach pain<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Liver problems<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kidney problems<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pregnancy or pregnancy plans<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Breastfeeding<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">breastfeeding<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> plans<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some parts of the world have a high incidence of tuberculosis, and some areas of the U.S. have a high incidence of certain types of serious <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">fungal infections<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, so make sure to tell the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">prescribing<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">healthcare provider<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> about where you\u2019ve traveled or lived in the past. This will help the doctor test for possible latent infections.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2. Tell the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">healthcare provider<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> about all medications being taken<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">S<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ide effects<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> of Xeljanz may be caused or worsened by <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">drug interactions<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Tell the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">prescribing<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">healthcare provider<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> about all prescription drugs, <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">over-the-counter<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> medicines, and dietary <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">supplements<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> being taken. In particular, make sure the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">prescribing<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">healthcare provider<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> knows about any recent <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">live vaccines<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or other medicines being taken to treat <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">rheumatoid arthritis<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">psoriatic arthritis<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ulcerative colitis<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, or polyarticular <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">juvenile idiopathic arthritis<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Take Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> as directed<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Take Xeljanz<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> exactly as directed on the prescription label. Do not take more than prescribed.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4. Read the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">medication guide<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pfizer, the manufacturer of Xeljanz,<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> includes a <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">medication guide<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> with every prescription. The guide outlines how to take this medication and contains information about potential side effects and complications. It also includes a list of symptoms that indicate there may be a serious problem. Read this <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">medication guide<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> each time you pick up a prescription. If you notice symptoms listed in the guide, immediately seek out <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">medical advice<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5. Know when to get help<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Get medical help if you have:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Trouble breathing<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Shortness of breath<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chest pain<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Swelling of the extremities<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fever<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pain in the stomach area<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Changes in bowel movements<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Swelling of the face, mouth, or throat<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hives<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Clay-colored bowel movements<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dark urine<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yellow skin or eyes<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fatigue and loss of appetite<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Unplanned <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">weight loss<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Related resources for <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">side effects<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">:<\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pdr.net\/drug-summary\/Xeljanz-Xeljanz-XR-tofacitinib-2716\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tofacitinib<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> drug summary<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prescriber<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u2019s Digital Reference<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/online.epocrates.com\/drugs\/651401\/Xeljanz\/Adult-Dosing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, Epocrates<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/dailymed.nlm.nih.gov\/dailymed\/drugInfo.cfm?setid=cf74ba2f-afc5-4baa-8594-979c889a5831\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xeljanz<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">prescribing<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> information<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, U.S. National Library of Medicine<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Common Xeljanz side effects\u00a0| Serious side effects | Infection | Malignancies | Blood problems | Cholesterol\u00a0|\u00a0How long do side effects last? | Warnings | Interactions | How to avoid side effects Xeljanz is a brand-name prescription drug used to treat autoimmune conditions in which the immune system overreacts and attacks healthy cells, causing inflammation, pain, [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":15,"featured_media":48089,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[4589],"tags":[12164,16414,788,12752],"coauthors":[8861],"class_list":["post-48082","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drug-info","tag-arthritis","tag-digestive-health","tag-drug-safety","tag-medication-side-effects","wpautop"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.4 (Yoast SEO v27.4) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Xeljanz side effects, interactions, warnings, and how to avoid them<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Headache, diarrhea, and nausea are common Xeljanz side effects. 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