Biologics are a form of targeted therapy that uses genetically modified proteins to target immune system cells that attack healthy cells, causing rheumatoid arthritis (RA) symptoms.

Biologics can be used to treat a range of illnesses, and GoodRx notes that some of the best-known types of this medication are prescribed specifically for RA. 

Xeljanz, also known by its generic name tofacitinib, is an oral biologic treatment for RA, and is manufactured by pharmaceutical giant Pfizer, Inc. The medication, according to GoodRx, is making it possible to treat some diseases previously considered untreatable.

What are side effects of Xeljanz?

Of course, it is expected that any medication will have certain side effects associated with it, and Xeljanz is no exception. Mild side effects of Xeljanz include headaches or diarrhea.

But in early 2019, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning that people taking Xeljanz may be at an increased risk of developing blood clots in the lungs.

In addition to blood clots in the lungs, the FDA warning notes that patients taking twice-daily 10mg doses of Xeljanz have a higher risk of pulmonary embolism, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and death.

The 10mg dosage linked with these serious and even life-threatening side effects has not been approved for the treatment of RA; it is only for those with ulcerative colitis, another auto-immune disorder.

In July 2019, the FDA approved the addition of a Xeljanz label Boxed Warning about the risk of blood clots associated with the medication. However, patients should remember that they should not stop taking Xeljanz without first consulting their doctor.

How does Xeljanz work?

Xeljanz works slightly differently than other biologic medications, Medical News Today reports, noting that it “targets proteins inside the cell while all other biologic treatments target proteins outside the cells.”

Most experts concur that Xeljanz is a biologic. However, one article in Annals of Gastroenterology suggests that what differentiates it — how it treats RA —  means that it’s not a biologic at all, though it should be noted that the article’s author, Amy S. Marren, is both an employee and a shareholder of Pfizer, Inc., the drug’s manufacturer.

Other biologics must be taken via IV or injection, while Xeljanz can be ingested as a pill twice daily. Xeljanz is commonly accepted as a biologic, though others consider it simply a “small molecule.”

What are the advantages of Xeljanz?

Xeljanz’s increasing popularity may be attributed to its success treating some RA patients who didn’t respond to other biologics as well as those who responded insufficiently to non-biologic treatments, according to Healthline.

For RA patients who are not responding to the classic “first line of defense,” Xeljanz may be a good option. Taking two pills a day as opposed to getting an injection also makes Xeljanz an attractive option for many patients, according to the drug’s manufacturer.

How can biologics treat rheumatoid arthritis?

Biologics are in a treatment category known as targeted therapy, meaning they attack specific cell types. Traditional RA treatments do not work this way.

During biologic RA treatment, monoclonal antibodies work to prevent the processes that lead to joint inflammation, damage, and pain. This is done by trapping the molecules that trigger inflammation, thereby preventing them from causing inflammation.

Are biologic treatments common?

Biologic treatments are not always doctors’ first option for treating rheumatoid arthritis or other auto-immune disorders, like Crohn’s. Many RA patients have issues with multiple cells and since a biologic can only attach to one cell type, the medication may not be able to affect the multiple sources of the problem, according to Medical News Today.

Doctors have the discretion to prescribe multiple biologics, but a litany of side effects must be considered when taking multiple medications.

Can I file a Xeljanz lawsuit?

If you or someone you love has suffered from side effects like pulmonary embolism after taking Xeljanz, you may be able to file a lawsuit and pursue compensation. Of course, pursuing litigation cannot take away the pain and suffering caused by these health complications, nor can it bring a loved one back to life, but it can at least help to alleviate the financial burden incurred by medical expenses, lost wages, and more.

Filing a lawsuit can be a daunting prospect, especially while dealing with medical complications, 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.

Learn More

This article is not legal advice. It is presented 
for informational purposes only.