TOFACITINIB
Brand names: TOFACITINIB, XELJANZ, Tofacitinib, tofacitinib, XELJANZ XR, tofacitinib solution, Tofacitinib XR
Boxed warning
WARNING: SERIOUS INFECTIONS, MORTALITY, MALIGNANCY, MAJOR ADVERSE CARDIOVASCULAR EVENTS, and THROMBOSIS SERIOUS INFECTIONS Patients treated with tofacitinib extended-release tablets are at increased risk for developing serious bacterial, fungal, viral, and opportunistic infections, including tuberculosis (TB), that may lead to hospitalization or death [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ), Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 )]. Most patients who developed these infections were taking concomitant immunosuppressants such as methotrexate or corticosteroids. Reported infections included: Active TB, which may present with pulmonary or extrapulmonary disease. Patients should be tested for latent TB before tofacitinib extended-release tablets use and during therapy. Treatment for latent infection should be initiated prior to tofacitinib extended-release tablets use. Invasive fungal infections, including cryptococcosis and pneumocystosis. Patients with invasive fungal infections may present with disseminated, rather than localized, disease. Bacterial, viral, including herpes zoster, and other infections due to opportunistic pathogens. The risks and benefits of tofacitinib extended-release tablets treatment should be carefully considered prior to initiating therapy in patients with chronic or recurrent infection. Patients should be closely monitored for the development of signs and symptoms of infection during and after tofacitinib extended-release tablets treatment, including the possible development of TB in patients who tested negative for latent TB infection prior to initiating therapy. If a serious infection develops, interrupt tofacitinib extended-release tablets until the infection is controlled [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )]. MORTALITY In a large, randomized, postmarketing safety study in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients 50 years of age and older with at least one cardiovascular (CV) risk factor comparing tofacitinib tablets 5 mg or 10 mg twice a day to tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blockers, a higher rate of all-cause mortality, including sudden CV death, was observed with tofacitinib tablets 5 mg or 10 mg twice a day [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )]. Tofacitinib tablets 10 mg twice daily dosages are not recommended for the treatment of RA, psoriatic arthritis (PsA), or ankylosing spondylitis (AS) [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.3 )]. MALIGNANCIES Malignancies, including lymphomas and solid tumors, have occurred in patients treated with tofacitinib and other Janus kinase inhibitors used to treat inflammatory conditions. In RA patients, a higher rate of malignancies (excluding non-melanoma skin cancer NMSC)) was observed in patients treated with tofacitinib tablets 5 mg or 10 mg twice a day compared with TNF blockers [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )]. Lymphomas and lung cancers were observed at a higher rate in patients treated with tofacitinib tablets 5 mg or 10 mg twice a day in RA patients compared to those treated with TNF blockers. Patients who are current or past smokers are at additional increased risk. MAJOR ADVERSE CARDIOVASCULAR EVENTS RA patients 50 years of age and older with at least one cardiovascular risk factor, treated with tofacitinib tablets 5 mg or 10 mg twice daily, had a higher rate of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) (defined as cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, and stroke), compared to those treated with TNF blockers. Patients who are current or past smokers are at additional increased risk. Discontinue tofacitinib extended-release tablets in patients that have experienced a myocardial infarction or stroke [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )]. THROMBOSIS Thrombosis, including pulmonary embolism, deep venous thrombosis, and arterial thrombosis have occurred in patients treated with tofacitinib and other Janus kinase inhibitors used to treat inflammatory conditions. Many of these events were serious and some resulted in death. RA patients 50 years of age and older with at least one cardiovascular risk factor treated with tofacitinib tablets 5 mg or 10 mg twice daily compared to TNF blockers had an observed increase in incidence of these events. Avoid tofacitinib in patients at risk. Discontinue tofacitinib extended-release tablets and promptly evaluate patients with symptoms of thrombosis [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 )]. WARNING: SERIOUS INFECTIONS, MORTALITY, MALIGNANCY, MAJOR ADVERSE CARDIOVASCULAR EVENTS, and THROMBOSIS See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. Increased risk of serious bacterial, fungal, viral, and opportunistic infections, including tuberculosis (TB), leading to hospitalization or death. Interrupt tofacitinib extended-release tablets treatment if serious infection occurs until the infection is controlled. Test for latent TB before and during therapy; treat latent TB prior to use. Monitor all patients for active TB during treatment, even patients with initial negative latent TB test. ( 5.1 ) Higher rate of all-cause mortality, including sudden cardiovascular ( CV) death with tofacitinib vs. TNF blockers in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. ( 5.2 ) Malignancies have occurred in patients treated with tofacitinib. Higher rate of lymphomas and lung cancers with tofacitinib vs. TNF blockers in RA patients. ( 5.3 ) Higher rate of major adverse CV events (defined as CV death, myocardial infarction, and stroke) with tofacitinib vs. TNF blockers in RA patients. ( 5.4 ) Thrombosis has occurred in patients treated with tofacitinib. Increased incidence of pulmonary embolism, venous and arterial thrombosis with tofacitinib vs. TNF blockers in RA patients. ( 5.5 )
Warnings
WARNING: SERIOUS INFECTIONS, MORTALITY, MALIGNANCY, MAJOR ADVERSE CARDIOVASCULAR EVENTS, and THROMBOSIS SE RIO US IN FECTIONS Patients treat e d with tofacitinib extended-release tablets are at increased risk for developing serious bacterial, fungal, viral, and opportunistic infections, including tuberculosis (TB), that may lead to hospitalization or death [ s e e Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ) and Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 )] . Mo s t patients who developed these infections were taking concomitant immunosuppressants such as methotrexate or corticosteroids. Reported infections included: Active TB, which may present with pulmonary or extrapulmonary disease. Patients should be tested for latent TB before tofacitinib extended-release tablets use and during therapy. Treatment for latent infection should be initiated prior to tofacitinib extended-release tablets use. Invasive fungal infections, including cryptococcosis and pneumocystosis. Patients with invasive fungal infections may present with disseminated, rather than localized, disease. Bacterial, viral, including herpes zoster, and other infections due to opportunistic pathogens. Th e risks and benefits of tofacitinib extended-release tablets treatment should be carefully considered prior to initiating therapy in patients with chronic or recurrent infection. Patients shoul d be closely monitored for the development of signs and symptoms of infection during and after tofacitinib extended-release tablets treatment, including the possible development of TB in patients who tested negative for latent TB infection prior to initiating therapy. If a serious infection develops, interrupt tofacitinib extended-release tablets until the infection is controlled [ s e e Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] . MO R T A LI TY I n a large, randomized, postmarketing safety study in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients 50 years of age and older with at least one cardiovascular (CV) risk factor comparing XELJANZ tablets 5 mg or 10 mg twice a day to tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blockers, a higher rate of all-cause mortality, including sudden CV death, was observed with XELJANZ tablets 5 mg or 10 mg twice a day [ s e e Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] . X E L J A N Z 10 mg twice daily an d tofacitinib extended-release tablets 22 mg once daily dosages are not r e commend e d fo r the treatment of RA, psoriatic arthritis (PsA), or ankylosing spondylitis (AS) [ s e e Dosage and Administration ( 2.3 )]. MA L IGNAN CIES Malignancie s , including lymphomas an d solid tumors, have occurred in patients treated with XELJANZ and other Janus kinase inhibitors used to treat inflammatory conditions. In RA patients, a higher rate of malignancies (excluding non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC)) was observed in patients treated with XELJANZ tablets 5 mg or 10 mg twice a day compared with TNF blockers [ s e e Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )] . L y mphoma s an d lung cancers were observed at a higher rate in patients treated with XELJANZ tablets 5 mg or 10 mg twice a day in RA patients compared to those treated with TNF blockers. Patients who are current or past smokers are at additional increased risk. M AJOR ADVERSE CARDIOVASCULAR EVENTS R A patients 50 years of age and older with at least one cardiovascular risk factor, treated with XELJANZ tablets 5 mg or 10 mg twice daily, had a higher rate of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) (defined as cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, and stroke), compared to those treated with TNF blockers. Patients who are current or past smokers are at additional increased risk. Discontinue tofacitinib extended-release tablets in patients that have experienced a myocardial infarction or stroke [ s e e Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] . THR O M B OS I S Thrombosi s , including pulmona r y embolism, deep venous thrombosis, and arterial thrombosis have occurred in patients treated with XELJANZ and other Janus kinase inhibitors used to treat inflammatory conditions. Many of these events were serious and some resulted in death. RA patients 50 years of age and older with at least one cardiovascular risk factor treated with XELJANZ tablets 5 mg or 10 mg twice daily compared to TNF blockers had an observed increase in incidence of these events. Avoid tofacitinib extended-release tablets in patients at risk. Discontinue tofacitinib extended-release tablets an d promptly evaluate patients with symptoms of thrombosis [ s e e Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 )]. W AR NI N G : SERIOUS INFECTIONS, MORTALITY, MALIGNANCY, M A JO R ADVERSE CARDIOVASCULAR EVENTS, and THROMBOSIS S e e full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. Increased risk of serious bacterial, fungal, viral, and opportunistic infections, including tuberculosis (TB), leading to hospitalization or death. Interrupt tofacitinib extended-release tablets treatment if serious infection occurs until the infection is controlled. Test for latent TB before and during therapy; treat latent TB prior to use. Monitor all patients for active TB during treatment, even patients with initial negative latent TB test. ( 5.1 ) Higher rate of all-cause mortality, including sudden cardiovascular (CV) death with XELJANZ vs. TNF blockers in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. ( 5.2 ) Malignancies have occurred in patients treated with XELJANZ. Higher rate of lymphomas and lung cancers with XELJANZ vs. TNF blockers in RA patients. ( 5.3 ) Higher rate of major adverse CV events (defined as CV death, myocardial infarction, and stroke) with XELJANZ vs. TNF blockers in RA patients. ( 5.4 ) Thrombosis has occurred in patients treated with XELJANZ. Increased incidence of pulmonary embolism, venous and arterial thrombosis with XELJANZ vs. TNF blockers in RA patients. ( 5.5 )
5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Se r iou s Infections : Avoid use of tofacitinib extended-release tablets during an active serious infection, including localized infections. ( 5.1 ) Gastrointestinal Perforations : Promptly evaluate patients at increased risk for gastrointestinal perforation who present with new onset abdominal symptoms. ( 5.6 ) Laboratory Monitoring : Recommended due to potential changes in lymphocytes, neutrophils, hemoglobin, liver enzymes and lipids. ( 5.8 ) Vaccinations : Avoid use of live vaccines concurrently with tofacitinib extended-release tablets. ( 5.9 ) 5.1 Serious Infections Serious and sometimes fatal infections may occur with tofacitinib extended-release tablets. Serious and sometimes fatal infections due to bacterial, mycobacterial, invasive fungal, viral, or other opportunistic pathogens have been reported in patients receiving XELJANZ. The most common serious infections reported with XELJANZ included pneumonia, urinary tract infection, cellulitis, herpes zoster, bronchitis, septic shock, diverticulitis, gastroenteritis, appendicitis, and sepsis. Among opportunistic infections, tuberculosis and other mycobacterial infections, cryptococcosis, histoplasmosis, esophageal candidiasis, pneumocystosis, multi-dermatomal herpes zoster, cytomegalovirus infections, BK virus infection, and listeriosis were repor ted with XELJANZ. Some patients have presented with disseminated rather than localized disease, and were of ten taking concomitant immunomodulating agents such as methotrexate or corticosteroids. Other serious infections that were not reported in clinical studies may also occur (e.g., coccidioidomycosis). Avoid use of tofacitinib extended-release tablets in patients with an active, serious infection, including localized infections. The risks and benefits of treatment should be considered prior to initiating tofacitinib extended-release tablets in patients: with chronic or recurrent infection who have been exposed to tuberculosis with a history of a serious or an opportunistic infection who have resided or traveled in areas of endemic tuberculosis or endemic mycoses; or with underlying conditions that may predispose them to infection. Closely monitor patients for the development of signs and symptoms of infection during and after treatment with tofacitinib extended-release tablets. Interrupt tofacitinib extended-release tablets if a patient develops a serious infection, an opportunistic infection, or sepsis. In patients who develop a new infection during treatment with tofacitinib extended- release tablets, promptly complete diagnostic testing appropriate for an immunocompromised patient; initiate appropriate antimicrobial therapy, and monitor the patients closely. Caution is also recommended in patients with a history of chronic lung disease, or in those who develop interstitial lung disease, as they may be more prone to infections. Risk of infection may be higher with increasing degrees of lymphopenia and consideration should be given to lymphocyte counts when assessing individual patient risk of infection. Discontinuation and monitoring criteria for lymphopenia are recommended [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.3 )]. T u berc u lo s i s Evaluate and test patients for latent or active tuberculosis (TB) infection prior to and per applicable guidelines during administration of tofacitinib extended-release tablets. Consider anti-TB therapy prior to administration of tofacitinib extended-release tablets in patients with a past history of latent or active TB in whom an adequate course of treatment cannot be confirmed, and for patients with a negative test for latent TB but who have risk factors for TB infection. Consultation with a physician with expertise in the treatment of TB is recommended to aid in the decision about whether initiating anti-TB therapy is appropriate for an individual patient. Monitor patients closely for the development of signs and symptoms of TB, including patients who tested negative for latent TB infection prior to initiating therapy. Treat patients with latent TB with standard antimycobacterial therapy before administering tofacitinib extended-release tablets. V i ra l Reactivation Viral reactivation, including cases of herpes virus reactivation (e.g., herpes zoster), were observed in clinical studies with XELJANZ. Postmarketing cases of hepatitis B reactivation have been reported in patients treated with XELJANZ. The impact of tofacitinib extended-release tablets on chronic viral hepatitis reactivation is unknown. Patients who screened positive for hepatitis B or C were excluded from clinical trials. Perform screening for viral hepatitis in accordance with clinical guidelines before starting therapy with tofacitinib extended-release tablets. The risk of herpes zoster is increased in patients treated with tofacitinib extended-release tablets and appears to be higher in patients treated with XELJANZ in Japan and Korea. 5.2 Increased Risk of Mortality Increased risk of mortality may occur with tofacitinib extended-release tablets. Adult patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), 50 years of age and older, with at least one cardiovascular risk factor treated with XELJANZ tablets 5 mg or 10 mg twice a day had a higher observed rate of all-cause mortality, including sudden cardiovascular death, compared to those treated with TNF blockers in a large, randomized, postmarketing safety study (RA Safety Study 1). The incidence rate of all-cause mortality per 100 patient-years was 1.23 for XELJANZ tablets 10 mg twice a day, 0.88 for XELJANZ tablets 5 mg twice a day, and 0.69 for TNF blockers [see Clinical Studies ( 14.6 )] . Consider the benefits and risks for the individual patient prior to initiating or continuing therapy with tofacitinib extended-release tablets. XELJANZ 10 mg twice daily (or tofacitinib extended-release tablets 22 mg once daily) dosages are not recommended for the treatment of RA, PsA, or AS [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.3 )] . 5.3 Malignancy and Lymphoproliferative Disorders Malignancies and lymphoproliferative disorders may occur with tofacitinib extended-release tablets. Malignancies, including lymphomas and solid cancers, were observed in clinical studies of XELJANZ [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 )] . Other malignancies were observed in XELJANZ clinical studies and the postmarketing setting, including, but not limited to, lung cancer, breast cancer, melanoma, prostate cancer, and pancreatic cancer. In RA Safety Study 1, a higher rate of malignancies (excluding non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC)) was observed in patients treated with XELJANZ tablets 5 mg or 10 mg twice a day compared with TNF blockers. The incidence rate of malignancies (excluding NMSC) per 100 patient-years was 1.13 for XELJANZ tablets 10 mg twice a day, 1.13 for XELJANZ tablets 5 mg twice a day, and 0.77 for TNF blockers. Patients who are current or past smokers are at additional increased risk [see Clinical Studies ( 14.6 )] . Lymphomas and lung cancers, which are a subset of all malignancies in RA Safety Study 1, were observed at a higher rate in patients treated with XELJANZ tablets 5 mg twice a day and XELJANZ tablets 10 mg twice a day compared to those treated with TNF blockers. The incidence rate of lymphomas per 100 patient-years was 0.11 for XELJANZ tablets 10 mg twice a day, 0.07 for XELJANZ tablets 5 mg twice a day, and 0.02 for TNF blockers. The incidence rate of lung cancers per 100 patient-years among current and past smokers was 0.59 for XELJANZ tablets 10 mg twice a day, 0.48 for XELJANZ tablets 5 mg twice a day, and 0.27 for TNF blockers [see Clinical Studies ( 14.6 )] . Consider the benefits and risks for the individual patient prior to initiating or continuing therapy with tofacitinib extended-release tablets, particularly in patients with a known malignancy (other than a successfully treated NMSC), patients who develop a malignancy while on treatment, and patients who are current or past smokers. XELJANZ 10 mg twice daily (or tofacitinib extended-release tablets 22 mg once daily) dosages are not recommended for the treatment of RA, PsA, or AS [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.3 )] . Non-Melanom a S k i n Cancer Non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSCs) have been reported in patients treated with XELJANZ tablets. Periodic skin examination is recommended for patients who are at increased risk for skin cancer. 5.4 Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events Major adverse cardiovascular events may occur with tofacitinib extended-release tablets. In RA Safety Study 1, patients with RA who were 50 years of age and older with at least one cardiovascular risk factor and treated with XELJANZ tablets 5 mg or 10 mg twice daily had a higher rate of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) defined as cardiovascular death, non-fatal myocardial infarction (MI), and non-fatal stroke, compared to those treated with TNF blockers. The incidence rate of MACE per 100 patient-years was 1.11 for XELJANZ tablets 10 mg twice a day, 0.91 for XELJANZ tablets 5 mg twice a day, and 0.79 for TNF blockers. The incidence rate of fatal or non-fatal myocardial infarction per 100 patient-years was 0.39 for XELJANZ tablets 10 mg twice a day, 0.36 for XELJANZ tablets 5 mg twice a day, and 0.2 for TNF blockers [see Clinical Studies ( 14.6 )] . Patients who are current or past smokers are at additional increased risk. Consider the benefits and risks for the individual patient prior to initiating or continuing therapy with tofacitinib extended-release tablets, particularly in patients who are current or past smokers and patients with other cardiovascular risk factors. Inform patients about the symptoms of serious cardiovascular events and the steps to take if they occur. Discontinue tofacitinib extended-release tablets in patients that have experienced a MI or stroke. XELJANZ 10 mg twice daily (or tofacitinib extended-release tablets 22 mg once daily) dosages are not recommended for the treatment of RA, PsA, or AS [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.3 )] . 5.5 Thrombosis Thrombosis may occur with tofacitinib extended-release tablets. Thrombosis, including pulmonary embolism (PE), deep venous thrombosis (DVT), and arterial thrombosis, have occurred in patients treated with XELJANZ and other Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors used to treat inflammatory conditions. Many of these events were serious and some resulted in death [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )]. Patients with RA 50 years of age and older with at least one cardiovascular risk factor treated with XELJANZ tablets 5 mg or 10 mg twice daily compared to TNF blockers in RA Safety Study 1 had an observed increase in incidence of these thrombotic events. The incidence rate of DVT per 100 patient-years was 0.28 for XELJANZ tablets 10 mg twice a day, 0.22 for XELJANZ tablets 5 mg twice a day, and 0.16 for TNF blockers. The incidence rate of PE per 100 patient-years was 0.49 for XELJANZ tablets 10 mg twice a day, 0.18 for XELJANZ tablets 5 mg twice a day, and 0.05 for TNF blockers [see Clinical Studies ( 14.6 )]. XELJANZ 10 mg twice daily (or tofacitinib extended-release tablets 22 mg once daily) dosages are not recommended for the treatment of RA, PsA, or AS [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.3 )] . Promptly evaluate patients with symptoms of thrombosis and discontinue tofacitinib extended-release tablets in patients with symptoms of thrombosis. Avoid tofacitinib extended-release tablets in patients that may be at increased risk of thrombosis. 5.6 Gastrointestinal Perforations Gastrointestinal perforations may occur with tofacitinib extended-release tablets. Events of gastrointestinal perforation have been reported in clinical studies with XELJANZ tablets, although the role of JAK inhibition in these events is not known. In these studies, many patients with RA received background therapy with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Promptly evaluate patients treated with tofacitinib extended-release tablets who may be at increased risk for gastrointestinal perforation (e.g., patients with a history of diverticulitis or taking NSAIDs) and who present with new onset abdominal symptoms for early identification of gastrointestinal perforation [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 )] . 5.7 Hypersensitivity Reactions Hypersensitivity reactions may occur with tofacitinib extended-release tablets. Reactions such as angioedema and urticaria that may reflect drug hypersensitivity have been observed in patients receiving tofacitinib extended-release tablets. Some events were serious. If a serious hypersensitivity reaction occurs, promptly discontinue tofacitinib extended-release tablets while evaluating the potential cause or causes of the reaction [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.2 )] . 5.8 Laboratory Abnormalities Laboratory abnormalities may occur with tofacitinib extended-release tablets. L y mpho c y t e Abnormalities Treatment with XELJANZ tablets was associated with initial lymphocytosis at one month of XELJANZ tablets treatment followed by a gradual decrease in mean absolute lymphocyte counts below the baseline of approximately 10% during 12 months of therapy. Lymphocyte counts less than 500 cells/ mm 3 in these patients were associated with an increased incidence of treated and serious infections. Monitor lymphocyte counts at baseline and every 3 months thereafter. Avoid initiation of tofacitinib extended-release tablets treatment in patients with a low lymphocyte count (i.e., less than 500 cells/mm 3 ). In patients who develop a confirmed absolute lymphocyte count less than 500 cells/mm 3 , treatment with tofacitinib extended-release tablets is not recommended. Neutropen i a Treatment with XELJANZ tablets was associated with an increased incidence of neutropenia (less than 2000 cells/mm3) compared to treatment with placebo. Monitor neutrophil counts at baseline and af ter 4-8 weeks of treatment and every 3 months thereafter. Avoid initiation of tofacitinib extended-release tablets treatment in patients with a low neutrophil count (i.e., ANC less than 1000 cells/mm 3 ). For patients who develop a persistent ANC of 500 to 1000 cells/mm 3 , interrupt dosing until ANC is greater than or equal to 1000 cells/mm 3 . In patients who develop an ANC less than 500 cells/mm 3 , treatment with tofacitinib extended-release tablets is not recommended. Anemia Monitor hemoglobin at baseline and after 4-8 weeks of treatment and every 3 months thereafter. Avoid initiation of tofacitinib extended-release tablets treatment in patients with a low hemoglobin level (i.e., less than 9 g/dL). Interrupt treatment with tofacitinib extended-release tablets in patients who develop hemoglobin levels less than 8 g/dL or whose hemoglobin level drops greater than 2 g/dL on treatment until hemoglobin values have normalized. L i v e r Enzyme Elevations Treatment with XELJANZ tablets was associated with an increased incidence of liver enzyme elevation compared to treatment with placebo. Most of these abnormalities occurred in studies with background DMARD therapy (primarily methotrexate). Routine monitoring of liver tests and prompt investigation of the causes of liver enzyme elevations is recommended to identify potential cases of drug-induced liver injury. If drug-induced liver injury is suspected, interrupt the administration of tofacitinib extended-release tablets until this diagnosis has been excluded. L i pid E levation s Treatment with XELJANZ tablets was associated with dose-dependent increases in lipid parameters including total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. Maximum changes in these lipid parameters were generally observed within 6 weeks. There were no clinically relevant changes in LDL/ HDL cholesterol ratios. The effect of these lipid parameter elevations on cardiovascular morbidity and mortality has not been determined. Perform assessment of lipid parameters approximately 4-8 weeks following initiation of tofacitinib extended-release tablets therapy. Manage patients according to clinical guidelines [e.g., National Cholesterol Educational Program (NCEP)] for the management of hyperlipidemia. 5.9 Vaccinations Avoid use of live vaccines concurrently with tofacitinib extended-release tablets. Prior to initiating tofacitinib extended-release tablets therapy, update immunizations in agreement with current immunization guidelines. The interval between live vaccinations and initiation of tofacitinib extended-release tablets therapy should be in accordance with current vaccination guidelines regarding immunosuppressive agents. 5.10 Risk of Gastrointestinal Obstruction with Tofacitinib Extended-Release Tablets - A Non-Deformable Extended-Release Formulation Gastrointestinal obstruction may occur with tofacitinib extended-release tablets. Avoid use of tofacitinib extended-release tablets in patients with pre-existing severe gastrointestinal narrowing (pathologic or iatrogenic). There have been rare reports of obstructive symptoms in patients with known strictures in association with the ingestion of other drugs utilizing a non-deformable extended-release formulation.
Contraindications
4 CONTRAINDICATIONS None. None ( 4 )
Overdose
10 OVERDOSAGE There is no specific antidote for overdose with tofacitinib extended-release tablets. In case of an overdose, it is recommended that the patient be monitored for signs and symptoms of adverse reactions. In a study in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) undergoing hemodialysis, plasma tofacitinib concentrations declined more rapidly during the period of hemodialysis and dialyzer efficiency, calculated as dialyzer clearance/blood flow entering the dialyzer, was high [mean (SD) = 0.73 (0.15)]. However, due to the significant non-renal clearance of tofacitinib, the fraction of total elimination occurring by hemodialysis was small, and thus, limits the value of hemodialysis for treatment of overdose with tofacitinib. Consider contacting the Poison Help line (1-800-222-1222) or a medical toxicologist for additional overdose management recommendations.
Drug interactions
7 DRUG INTERACTIONS Table 7 includes drugs with clinically significant drug interactions when concomitantly used with tofacitinib extended-release tablets and instructions for preventing or managing them. Table 7: Clinically Significant Interactions Affecting Tofacitinib Extended-Release Tablets When Concomitantly Used with Other Drugs Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole) Clinical Impact Increased exposure to tofacitinib Intervention Dosage modification of tofacitinib extended-release tablets is recommended [see Dosage and Administration ( 2 ), Clinical Pharmacology, Figure 3 ( 12.3 )] Moderate CYP3A4 Inhibitors Concomitantly Used with Strong CYP2C19 Inhibitors (e.g., fluconazole) Clinical Impact Increased exposure to tofacitinib Intervention Dosage modification of tofacitinib extended-release tablets is recommended [see Dosage and Administration ( 2 ), Clinical Pharmacology, Figure 3 ( 12.3 )] Strong CYP3A4 Inducers (e.g., rifampin) Clinical Impact Decreased exposure to tofacitinib and may result in loss of or reduced clinical response Intervention Concomitant use with tofacitinib extended-release tablets is not recommended [see Clinical Pharmacology, Figure 3 ( 12.3 )] Immunosuppressive Drugs (e.g., azathioprine, tacrolimus, cyclosporine) Clinical Impact Risk of added immunosuppression; concomitant use of tofacitinib extended-release tablets with biologic DMARDs or potent immunosuppressants has not been studied in patients with RA, PsA or AS. Intervention Concomitant use with tofacitinib extended-release tablets is not recommended [see Indications and Usage ( 1 ), Clinical Pharmacology, Figure 3 ( 12.3 )] See FPI for clinically significant drug interactions. ( 2 , 7 )
Uses
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Tofacitinib extended-release tablets are Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors. Tofacitinib extended-release tablets are indicated for the treatment of adult patients with: Moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis (RA) , who have had an inadequate response or intolerance to one or more TNF blockers. Active psoriatic arthritis (PsA), who have had an inadequate response or intolerance to one or more TNF blockers. Active ankylosing spondylitis (AS), who have had an inadequate response or intolerance to one or more TNF blockers. L i mi t ation s o f Use: Use of tofacitinib extended-release tablets for RA, AS, or PsA in combination with biologic DMARDs or potent immunosuppressants such as azathioprine and cyclosporine is not recommended. ( 1.1 , 1.2 , 1.3 ) 1.1 Rheumatoid Arthritis Tofacitinib extended-release tablets are indicated for the treatment of adult patients with moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis (RA), who have had an inadequate response or intolerance to one or more TNF blockers. L i mi t ation s o f Use Use of tofacitinib extended-release tablets in combination with biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) or with potent immunosuppressants such as azathioprine and cyclosporine is not recommended. 1.2 Psoriatic Arthritis Tofacitinib extended-release tablets are indicated for the treatment of adults with active PsA who have had an inadequate response or intolerance to one or more TNF blockers. L i mi t ation s o f Use Use of tofacitinib extended-release tablets in combination with biologic DMARDs or with potent immunosuppressants such as azathioprine and cyclosporine is not recommended. 1.3 Ankylosing Spondylitis Tofacitinib extended-release tablets are indicated for the treatment of adult patients with active ankylosing spondylitis (AS), who have had an inadequate response or intolerance to one or more TNF blockers. L i mi t ation s o f Use Use of tofacitinib extended-release tablets in combination with biologic DMARDs or potent immunosuppressants such as azathioprine and cyclosporine is not recommended.