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Xeljanz Dosage
The recommended dosage of Xeljanz for treating rheumatoid arthritis is usually one 5-mg tablet taken twice a day. If you have kidney disease, liver disease, or are taking certain medications, you may need a lower amount. Try to take this drug at the same time each day to maintain an even level in your bloodstream.
from eMedTV.comThe dose of Xeljanz® (tofacitinib) your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on the following factors:
- Your kidney and liver function
- How you respond to the medication
- Other medications you are taking.
As is always the case, do not adjust your dosage unless your healthcare provider specifically tells you to do so.
For most people, the standard recommended dosage of Xeljanz is one 5-mg tablet taken twice a day. However, a lower amount (5 mg once a day) is recommended for certain people, including those who:
- Have moderate or severe kidney disease
- Have moderate liver disease
- Are taking potent CYP 3A4 inhibitor medications
- Are taking medications that are both potent CYP 2C19 inhibitors and moderate CYP 3A4 inhibitors, such as fluconazole.
(Click Xeljanz Drug Interactions for more information.)
Xeljanz is not recommended for people with severe liver disease or for those who have low blood cell counts. Your healthcare provider will monitor your blood cell counts to make sure they do not become too low.
Some considerations to keep in mind during treatment with Xeljanz include the following:
- This medication comes in the form of a tablet. It is usually taken by mouth once or twice a day.
- You can take Xeljanz with or without food.
- Try to take your doses at the same times each day to keep an even level of the drug in your bloodstream.
- For Xeljanz to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Your symptoms will return if you stop taking this medication.
- If you are unsure about anything related to your Xeljanz dosage, please talk with your healthcare provider, nurse, or pharmacist.
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD