Tofajak

Introduction

Tofajak 5mg Tablets (1 bottle = 10 tablets) by Getz Pharma are prescribed when regular painkillers and simple treatments are no longer enough to control joint pain, stiffness, or swelling — especially in conditions like Rheumatoid Arthritis. Each tablet contains Tofacitinib, a powerful immune system regulator that calms down the overactive inflammation causing joint damage. It’s not an over-the-counter pill — this one needs a doctor’s supervision and regular monitoring. If your joints ache like rusty hinges in the morning or your fingers feel stuck like old door handles, this is usually the level of medicine doctors step in with.

Primary Uses

Tofajak is prescribed for long-term control of autoimmune inflammation in:

• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA).

• Psoriatic Arthritis.

• Ulcerative Colitis.

• Ankylosing Spondylitis (spinal inflammation).

• Polyarticular Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis / Juvenile Psoriatic Arthritis (in children/adolescents — under supervision only).

How It Works

Tofacitinib works like a traffic signal inside your immune system. It blocks certain chemical messengers (JAK pathways) that tell your body to overreact and attack its own joints or tissues. By slowing down these signals, it reduces swelling, pain, and joint damage — without fully shutting down your immunity.

Side Effects

Some people may experience:

• Skin rashes or shingles (reactivated chickenpox).

• Headache or fever.

• Increased blood pressure.

• Upset stomach — nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

• Cold-like symptoms — sore throat, sneezing, blocked nose.

• Changes in blood test results.

If symptoms feel stronger than the disease itself, call your doctor — don’t wait.

Drug Interactions

Do NOT use Tofajak with:

• Other biologic DMARDs (like Adalimumab, Etanercept, Infliximab etc.).

• Strong immunosuppressants like Azathioprine or Cyclosporine.

Too much suppression can leave your immune system defenseless, which is dangerous.

When Not to Use

Avoid Tofajak if:

• You are allergic to Tofacitinib.

• You have serious infections (like active TB or bloodstream infections).

• You have severe liver disease or cirrhosis.

• You are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Precautions

• If you have chronic lung disease, inform your doctor — infections may worsen.

• Regular blood tests are required during treatment.

• Avoid self-medicating — dosage is personalized and monitored.

Warnings

Warning 1: Seek help immediately if you notice swelling of face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing — could be an allergic reaction.
Warning 2: Tofajak can lower white blood cells, increasing your risk of infections — report fever or chills right away.
Warning 3: Long-term use may increase risk of blood clots (DVT, pulmonary embolism) — sudden chest pain or leg swelling is a red alert.

FAQs

Q: What is Tofajak used for?
A: To control long-term inflammatory diseases like Rheumatoid Arthritis and Ulcerative Colitis.

Q: Can I take it with painkillers like ibuprofen?
A: Usually yes, but only if your doctor approves — kidneys and liver must be monitored.

Q: How long does it take to work?
A: Some notice relief within 2–4 weeks, but full effect can take 2–3 months.

Q: Is it safe during pregnancy?
A: Not recommended — consult your doctor before planning pregnancy.

Q: Can I stop it suddenly?
A: Don’t — your symptoms may flare up. Always taper under medical guidance.

Doctor’s Overview

Dr. Farah Siddiqui (Rheumatologist):
“Tofacitinib is highly effective for moderate to severe arthritis when traditional medicines fail. It gives patients mobility back, but requires regular monitoring due to infection and clot risks. Compliance and supervision are key.”

Disclaimer

This information is based on DRAP guidelines and clinical usage in Pakistan. It’s not a substitute for medical advice. Always follow your doctor’s instructions before starting or stopping this medicine.