Jakafi (Ruxolitinib) for Myeloproliferative Neoplasms

Overview
Jakafi is a prescription drug approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat adults with intermediate or high-risk myelofibrosis, including primary myelofibrosis, post-polycythemia vera myelofibrosis, and post-essential thrombocythemia myelofibrosis. Jakafi is also referred to by its drug name, ruxolitinib.

Jakafi is a member of the kinase inhibitor class of drugs. It is believed to work in cases of MPN by blocking the activity of a family of enzymes known as Janus kinases, which are involved in cancer cell proliferation (when cancer cells grow quickly). Blocking their activity can result in the death of cancer cells.

How do I take it?
Prescribing information states that Jakafi is taken orally as a tablet twice daily.

Do not stop taking Jakafi suddenly. If you decide to stop taking Jakafi, consult your physician for a plan to reduce your dose gradually. Jakafi should be taken exactly as prescribed by a physician.

Side effects
The FDA-approved label for Jakafi lists common side effects including bruising, dizziness, headache, and low blood cell counts.

Rare but serious side effects listed for Jakafi include very low blood cell counts and severe infections.

Jakafi may not be appropriate for individuals who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or those with liver issues. Inform your doctor of any existing medical conditions before taking Jakafi.

Call your doctor if you develop signs of an infection while taking Jakafi, including chills, nausea, vomiting, aches, weakness, fever, or a painful skin rash or blisters.

For more details about this treatment, visit:

Jakafi — Incyte
https://www.jakafi.com/

Jakafi — Drugs.com
https://www.drugs.com/jakafi.html