Medications such as Xeljanz could provide some medicinal benefits for patients with certain conditions. However, as with any drug, the possibility of side effects is present. Those individuals who take Xeljanz should know of the possible side effects.

Remember that you should always talk over the potential benefits and risks of any medicine with your doctor so that you can make an educated decision about what is right for your treatment.

What is Xeljanz Prescribed for?

Xeljanz (tofacitinib) and Xeljanz XR (extended release) are prescription drugs used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, along with other autoimmune conditions.

Xeljanz is supplied for oral administration as an immediate release film coated tablet. Every tablet contains 5 mg of tofacitinib and several inactive ingredients.

Is There a Risk of Serious Infections with Xeljanz?

Patients who take Xeljanz or Xeljanz XR are at a higher risk for developing serious infections that could lead to fatal injuries or hospitalization. Many of the patients who have previously been reported as suffering from these infections were also taking immunosuppressants like corticosteroid or methotrexate. These reported infections included invasive fungal problems, bacterial and viral conditions associated with opportunistic pathogens, and active tuberculosis.

Am I at Risk for Blood Clot Injuries?

Some of the most serious and troubling side effects associated with Xeljanz have to do with blood clots. Patients who are suffering from a deep vein thrombosis, which is a deep vein blood clot in the legs, or a venous thromboembolic event (VTE), could experience symptoms such as sudden shortness of breath, back pain or difficulty breathing.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has also issued a warning about Xeljanz cancer and heart-related problems.

Have Other Countries Taken Action Regarding the Use of Xeljanz?

Health Canada is currently conducting a Xeljanz safety review after issues were identified during a clinical trial of rheumatoid arthritis patients using the medication This drug is given to those adults who have moderate to severely active rheumatoid arthritis or moderate to severely active ulcerative colitis for those people who do not respond well to other medications.

This medication is frequently prescribed in conjunction with other drugs which, as noted above, could cause additional side effects. That clinical trial was ongoing and identified an increased risk of blood clots as well as of death when medication was taken at a dose of 10 mg twice per day. That clinical trial is being carried out in multiple countries and involves patients who have at least one cardiovascular risk factor and are at least 50 years of age.

What Are My Options If I’m Currently Taking Xeljanz?

If you are already taking the medication Xeljanz for rheumatoid arthritis as prescribed by a physician, you should always talk through your options with your doctor first before making a decision to discontinue the drug.

If Xeljanz was recently recommended to you by your doctor and you are deciding next steps, discuss your concerns over the possibility of developing life-threatening blood clots and identify whether or not other medications might be a more appropriate fit. Although Xeljanz could be effective with treating some of the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, it could also cause patients to live with additional problems.

Filing a Xeljanz Lawsuit

If you or someone you love has suffered from blood clots or other side effects after using Xeljanz, you may be able to file a lawsuit and pursue compensation.

Filing a lawsuit can be a daunting prospect, so Top Class Actions has laid the groundwork for you by connecting you with an experienced attorney. Consulting an attorney can help you determine if you have a claim, navigate the complexities of litigation, and maximize your potential compensation.

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