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Ruxolitinib

Drug Class: Commonly Known As: Category:
JAK2 inhibitor Jakavi Adult

Ruxolitinib - What is it for

Ruxolitinib is used to treat some types of myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) – blood cancers in which there is an excessive production of blood cells e.g. myelofibrosis or polycythaemia vera

Ruxolitinib - Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can Ruxolitinib cause?

  1. Low blood cell counts (platelet, red blood cell and white blood cell)
  2. Increased risk of infection
  3. Tiredness, dizziness, headache or insomnia
  4. Diarrhoea, constipation or abdominal discomfort
  5. Increased cholesterol level

Inform your doctor if any of the following occurs:

  1. Sign of an allergic reaction e.g. rash, itching, swollen, trouble breathing.
  2. Sign of an infection e.g. fever, chills, sore throat, cough.
  3. Sign of bleeding e.g. throwing up blood, blood in the urine, black and tarry stools, bleeding from the gum, bruises without a reason or that get bigger.

Before taking Ruxolitinib , what precautions must I follow?

​If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, inform your doctor. If you think you may be pregnant while on Ruxolitinib, inform your doctor immediately so that he or she may discuss alternative treatments with you.

Do not breastfeed while on ruxolitinib and for 2 weeks after the final dose.

What food or medicine must I avoid when I take Ruxolitinib ?

1.    Ruxolitinib may interact with many types of medications. Tell your doctor or pharmacist the medicines you are taking including vitamins and supplements.  

2.    Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice when taking Ruxolitinib as these can increase the amount of Ruxolitinib in your body.

 

Ruxolitinib - Dosage and How to Use

How should Ruxolitinib be used?

Ruxolitinib is given orally. It may be taken with or without food. Always take it exactly as your doctor tells you. Do not change your dose or stop taking Ruxolitinib without first talking to your doctor. Stopping the drug suddenly can make you feel unwell. Most doctors will cut down the dose gradually, unless in special circumstances.

 

The dose you start on depends on your blood test results and the condition you have. Your doctor may need to change this dose throughout the treatment by checking your blood tests regularly.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of Ruxolitinib, take your next dose at your regular time. Do not take 2 doses at the same time.

What should I do if I overdose?

Ruxolitinib - Handling

How should I handle Ruxolitinib safely?

Ruxolitinib - Storage

How should I store Ruxolitinib ?

;#Keep away from children;#Keep in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight;#Store at room temperature;#

How should I dispose of Ruxolitinib safely?

Ruxolitinib - Additional Information

  • Updated on 5/15/2019 12:00:00 AM
  • Article contributed by Pharmacy Singapore General Hospital
The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

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