Tofizid-5 is a low-dose oral medication used to treat moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), and ulcerative colitis (UC). It belongs to the class of Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors.
Indications
1. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): Reduces inflammation, slows disease progression, and improves physical function.
2. Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): Relieves joint pain, reduces inflammation, and improves skin symptoms.
3. Ulcerative Colitis (UC): Induces and maintains remission in adult patients.
Mechanism of Action
Tofizid-5 selectively blocks Janus kinase (JAK) enzymes, specifically JAK1 and JAK3, which are involved in the signaling pathways of various cytokines. This inhibition:
1. Reduces inflammation
2. Decreases immune cell activation
3. Slows disease progression
Dosage
– 5mg twice daily (BID) for RA and PsA
– 5mg twice daily (BID) for UC induction; 5mg once daily (QD) for maintenance
Side Effects
Common:
1. Upper respiratory tract infections
2. Headache
3. Diarrhea
4. Nasopharyngitis
5. Increased liver enzymes
Serious:
1. Increased risk of infections (e.g., pneumonia, tuberculosis)
2. Increased risk of lymphoma and other cancers
3. Anemia
4. Neutropenia
5. Thrombocytopenia
Contraindications
1. Active tuberculosis
2. Serious infections
3. Lymphoma or other cancers
4. Severe hepatic impairment
5. Pregnancy or breastfeeding
Interactions
1. Immunosuppressants (e.g., azathioprine, cyclosporine)
2. Biologic DMARDs (e.g., etanercept, adalimumab)
3. CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, clarithromycin)
4. CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampicin, phenytoin)
Precautions
1. Monitor for signs of infection
2. Regularly check liver function tests
3. Monitor complete blood counts
4. Vaccination recommendations