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Drugs A–Z

Tofacitinib

Tofacitinib is a prescription medicine. The sections below reproduce one FDA label for it, named under "Label". Products in other forms, strengths or from other makers have their own labels, which can differ.

Type
Prescription only (Rx)
Taken
Oral
Label
Novadoz Pharmaceuticals LLC, revised September 1, 2026 · full label on DailyMed
Generic
FDA-approved (22 companies) · details

Boxed warning — the FDA's most serious warning for a medicine

WARNING: SERIOUS INFECTIONS, MORTALITY, MALIGNANCY, MAJOR ADVERSE CARDIOVASCULAR EVENTS, and THROMBOSIS SERIOUS INFECTIONS Patients treated with tofacitinib 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) and 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 tablets use and during therapy. Treatment for latent infection should be initiated prior to tofacitinib 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 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 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 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 dosage is not recommended for the treatment of RA, psoriatic arthritis (PsA), ankylosing spondylitis (AS), or polyarticular course juvenile idiopathic arthritis (pcJIA) [see Dosage and Administration (2.3 , 2.4) ] . MALIGNANCIES Malignancies, including lymphomas and solid tumors, have occurred in patients treated with tofacitinib tablets 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 tofacitinibtablets 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 tablets 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 tablets in patients at risk. Discontinue tofacitinib 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 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 tablets vs. TNF blockers in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. ( 5.2 ) Malignancies have occurred in patients treated with tofacitinib tablets. Higher rate of lymphomas and lung cancers with tofacitinib tablets 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 tablets vs. TNF blockers in RA patients. ( 5.4 ) Thrombosis has occurred in patients treated with tofacitinib tablets. Increased incidence of pulmonary embolism, venous and arterial thrombosis with tofacitinib tablets vs. TNF blockers in RA patients. ( 5.5 )

What it is used for

Tofacitinib tablets are Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors. Tofacitinib 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. Moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis (UC), who have had an inadequate response or intolerance to one or more TNF blockers. Tofacitinib tablets are indicated for the treatment of pediatric patients 2 years of age and older with: Active PsA, who have had an inadequate response or intolerance to one or more TNF blockers. Active polyarticular course juvenile idiopathic arthritis (pcJIA), who have had an inadequate response or intolerance to one or more TNF blockers. Limitations of Use: Use of tofacitinib tablets for RA, AS, PsA, or pcJIA in combination with biologic DMARDs or potent immunosuppressants such as azathioprine and cyclosporine is not recommended. ( 1.1 , 1.2 , 1.3 , 1.4 ) Use of tofacitinib tablets for UC in combination with biological therapies for UC or with potent immunosuppressants such as azathioprine and cyclosporine is not recommended. ( 1.5 )

1.1 Rheumatoid Arthritis Tofacitinib 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. Limitations of Use Use of tofacitinib 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 tablets are indicated for the treatment of adult and pediatric patients 2 years of age and older with active psoriatic arthritis (PsA), who have had an inadequate response or intolerance to one or more TNF blockers. Limitations of Use Use of tofacitinib tablets in combination with biologic DMARDs or with potent immunosuppressants such as azathioprine and cyclosporine is not recommended.

1.3 Ankylosing Spondylitis Tofacitinib 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. Limitations of Use Use of tofacitinib tablets in combination with biologic DMARDs or potent immunosuppressants such as azathioprine and cyclosporine is not recommended.

1.4 Polyarticular Course Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis Tofacitinib tablets are indicated for the treatment of pediatric patients 2 years of age and older with of active polyarticular course juvenile idiopathic arthritis (pcJIA), who have had an inadequate response or intolerance to one or more TNF blockers. Limitations of Use Use of tofacitinib tablets in combination with biologic DMARDs or with potent immunosuppressants such as azathioprine and cyclosporine is not recommended.

1.5 Ulcerative Colitis Tofacitinib tablets are indicated for the treatment of adult patients with moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis (UC), who have an inadequate response or intolerance to one or more TNF blockers. Limitations of Use Use of tofacitinib tablets in combination with biological therapies for UC or with potent immunosuppressants such as azathioprine and cyclosporine is not recommended.

Forms and strengths

Tofacitinib tablets: 5 mg tofacitinib: White to off white colored, round shaped, biconvex, film-coated tablets, debossed with “T1” on one side and “M” on other side. 10 mg tofacitinib: Blue colored, round shaped, biconvex, film-coated tablets, debossed with “T2” on one side and “M” on other side. Tofacitinib tablets: 5 mg, 10 mg ( 3 )

Who should not take it (contraindications)

None. None. ( 4 )

Warnings and precautions

Serious Infections: Avoid use of tofacitinib 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 ) Hypoglycemia in Patients with Diabetes: Consider increased monitoring of blood glucose; advise patients with diabetes to notify their healthcare provider if they develop signs or symptoms of hypoglycemia. ( 5.8 ) Laboratory Monitoring: Recommended due to potential changes in lymphocytes, neutrophils, hemoglobin, liver enzymes and lipids. ( 5.9 ) Vaccinations: Avoid use of live vaccines concurrently with tofacitinib. ( 5.10 )

5.1 Serious Infections Serious and sometimes fatal infections may occur with tofacitinib tablets. Serious and sometimes fatal infections due to bacterial, mycobacterial, invasive fungal, viral, or other opportunistic pathogens have been reported in patients receiving tofacitinib tablets. The most common serious infections reported with tofacitinib tablets 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 reported with tofacitinib tablets. Some patients have presented with disseminated rather than localized disease, and were often taking concomitant immunomodulating agents such as methotrexate or corticosteroids. In the UC population, treatment with tofacitinib tablets 10 mg twice daily was associated with greater risk of serious infections compared to 5 mg twice daily. Additionally, opportunistic herpes zoster infections (including meningoencephalitis, ophthalmologic, and disseminated cutaneous) were seen in patients who were treated with tofacitinib tablets 10 mg twice daily. Other serious infections that were not reported in clinical studies may also occur (e.g., coccidioidomycosis). Avoid use of tofacitinib tablets in patients with an active, serious infection, including localized infections. The risks and benefits of treatment should be considered prior to initiating tofacitinib 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 tablets. Interrupt tofacitinib tablets if a patient develops a serious infection, an opportunistic infection, or sepsis. In patients who develop a new infection during treatment with tofacitinib 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 , 2.4 , 2.5) ]. Tuberculosis Evaluate and test patients for latent or active tuberculosis (TB) infection prior to and per applicable guidelines during administration of tofacitinib tablets. Consider anti-TB therapy prior to administration of tofacitinib 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 tablets. Viral Reactivation Viral reactivation, including cases of herpes virus reactivation (e.g., herpes zoster), were observed in clinical studies with tofacitinib tablets. Postmarketing cases of hepatitis B reactivation have been reported in patients treated with tofacitinib tablets. The impact of tofacitinib 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 tablets. The risk of herpes zoster is increased in patients treated with tofacitinib tablets and appears to be higher in patients treated with tofacitinib tablets in Japan and Korea.

5.2 Increased Risk of Mortality Increased risk of mortality may occur with tofacitinib tablets. Adult patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), 50 years of age and older, with at least one cardiovascular risk factor treated with tofacitinib 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 tofacitinib tablets 10 mg twice a day, 0.88 for tofacitinib 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 tablets. Tofacitinib tablets 10 mg twice daily dosages are not recommended for the treatment of RA, PsA, AS, or pcJIA [see Dosage and Administration (2.3 , 2.4) ]. For the treatment of UC, use tofacitinib tablets at the lowest effective dose and for the shortest duration needed to achieve/maintain therapeutic response [see Dosage and Administration (2.5) ].

5.3 Malignancy and Lymphoproliferative Disorders Malignancies and lymphoproliferative disorders may occur with tofacitinib tablets. Malignancies, including lymphomas and solid cancers, were observed in clinical studies of tofacitinib tablets [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]. Other malignancies were observed in tofacitinib tablets 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 tofacitinib 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 tofacitinib tablets 10 mg twice a day, 1.13 for tofacitinib 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 tofacitinib tablets 5 mg twice a day and tofacitinib 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 tofacitinib tablets 10 mg twice a day, 0.07 for tofacitinib tablets 5 mg twice a day, and 0.02 for TNF blockers. […]

Side effects (adverse reactions)

The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling: Serious Infections [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Increased Risk of Mortality [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Malignancy and Lymphoproliferative Disorders [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] Thrombosis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] Gastrointestinal Perforations [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] Hypersensitivity Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] Hypoglycemia in Patients with Diabetes [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ] Laboratory Abnormalities [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) ] Most common adverse reactions are: RA, PsA, and AS: Reported in ≥2% of adult patients treated with tofacitinib tabletsmonotherapy or in combination with DMARDs: upper respiratory tract infection (URI), nasopharyngitis, diarrhea, and headache. ( 6.1 ) PcJIA: Consistent with common adverse reactions reported in adult patients with RA. ( 6.1 ) UC: Reported in ≥5% of adult patients treated with tofacitinib tabletsand ≥1% greater than reported in patients treated with placebo: nasopharyngitis, elevated cholesterol levels, headache, URI, increased blood creatine phosphokinase, rash, diarrhea, and herpes zoster. ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Novadoz Pharmaceuticals LLC at 1-855-668-2369 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.

6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical studies are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical studies of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical studies of another drug and may not predict the rates observed in a broader patient population in clinical practice. The clinical studies described in this subsection were conducted using tofacitinib tablets and/or XELJANZ oral solution. Adverse Reactions in Adults with Rheumatoid Arthritis In RA Safety Study 1, 1,455 adults were treated with tofacitinib tablets 5 mg twice daily, 1,456 adults were treated with 10 mg twice daily, and 1,451 adults were treated with a TNF blocker for a median of 4 years [see Clinical Studies (14.6 )] . A dosage of tofacitinib tablets 10 mg twice daily is not recommended for the treatment of RA because of increased risks [see Dosage and Administration (2.3 ) and Warnings and Precautions (5 )]. For the treatment of adults with moderately to severely active RA [see Indications and Usage (1.1 )] , the recommended dosage of tofacitinib tablets is 5 mg twice daily. The safety of tofacitinib tablets was also evaluated in two Phase 2 and five Phase 3 double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter trials in patients with RA. In these trials, adults were randomized to receive: Tofacitinib tablets (monotherapy) 5 mg twice daily (292 patients) or 10 mg twice daily (306 patients), In combination with DMARDs (including methotrexate), tofacitinib tablets 5 mg twice daily (1044 patients) or 10 mg twice daily (1043 patients) and Placebo (809 patients). All seven trials included provisions for patients taking placebo to receive treatment with tofacitinib tablets at Month 3 or Month 6 either by patient response (based on uncontrolled disease activity) or by design, so that adverse events cannot always be unambiguously attributed to a given treatment. Therefore, some analyses that follow include patients who changed treatment by design or by patient response from placebo to tofacitinib tablets in both the placebo and tofacitinib tablets group of a given interval. Comparisons between placebo and tofacitinib tablets groups were based on the first 3 months of exposure, and comparisons between tofacitinib tablets 5 mg twice daily and tofacitinib tablets 10 mg twice daily were based on the first 12 months of exposure. The long-term safety population includes all adults with RA who participated in a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial (including earlier development phase studies) and then participated in one of two long-term safety studies. The design of the long-term safety studies allowed for modification of tofacitinib tablets doses according to clinical judgment. This limits the interpretation of the long-term safety data with respect to dose. The most common serious adverse reactions were serious infections [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1 )]. The proportion of patients who discontinued treatment due to any adverse reaction during the 0 to 3 months exposure in the double-blind, placebo-controlled trials was 4% for tofacitinib tablets-treated patients and 3% for placebo-treated patients. Overall Infections In the seven placebo-controlled trials in patients with RA, during the 0 to 3 months exposure, the overall frequency of infections was 20% and 22% in the tofacitinib tablets 5 mg twice daily and tofacitinib tablets 10 mg twice daily groups, respectively, and 18% in the placebo group. The most commonly reported infections with tofacitinib tablets were upper respiratory tract infections, nasopharyngitis, and urinary tract infections (4%, 3%, and 2% of patients, respectively). Serious Infections: In the seven placebo-controlled trials in patients with RA, during the 0 to 3 months exposure, serious infections were reported in 1 patient (0.5 events per 100 patient-years) who received placebo and 11 patients (1.7 events per 100 patient-years) who received tofacitinib tablets 5 mg or 10 mg twice daily. The rate difference between treatment groups (and the corresponding 95% confidence interval) was 1.1 (- 0.4, 2.5) events per 100 patient-years for the combined tofacitinib tablets 5 mg twice daily and 10 mg twice daily group minus placebo. In the seven placebo-controlled trials, during the 0 to 12 months exposure, serious infections were reported in 34 patients (2.7 events per 100 patient-years) who received tofacitinib tablets 5 mg twice daily and 33 patients (2.7 events per 100 patient-years) who received tofacitinib tablets 10 mg twice daily. The rate difference between tofacitinib tablets doses (and the corresponding 95% confidence interval) was -0.1 (-1.3, 1.2) events per 100 patient-years for tofacitinib tablets 10 mg twice daily minus tofacitinib tablets 5 mg twice daily. The most common serious infections included pneumonia, cellulitis, herpes zoster, and urinary tract infection [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]. Tuberculosis: In the seven placebo-controlled trials in patients with RA, during the 0 to 3 months exposure, tuberculosis (TB) was not reported in patients who received placebo, tofacitinib tablets 5 mg twice daily, or tofacitinib tablets 10 mg twice daily. In the seven placebo-controlled trials, during the 0 to 12 months exposure, TB was reported in 0 patients who received tofacitinib tablets 5 mg twice daily and 6 patients (0.5 events per 100 patient-years) who received tofacitinib tablets 10 mg twice daily. The rate difference between tofacitinib tablets doses (and the corresponding 95% confidence interval) was 0.5 (0.1, 0.9) events per 100 patient-years for tofacitinib tablets 10 mg twice daily minus tofacitinib tablets 5 mg twice daily. Cases of disseminated TB were also reported. The median tofacitinib tablets exposure prior to diagnosis of TB was 10 months (range from 152 to 960 days) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1 )]. Opportunistic Infections (excluding tuberculosis): In the seven placebo-controlled trials in patients with RA, during the 0 to 3 months exposure, opportunistic infections were not reported in patients who received placebo, tofacitinib tablets 5 mg twice daily, or tofacitinib tablets 10 mg twice daily. In the seven placebo-controlled trials, during the 0 to 12 months exposure, opportunistic infections were reported in 4 patients (0.3 events per 100 patient-years) who received tofacitinib tablets 5 mg twice daily and 4 patients (0.3 events per 100 patient-years) who received tofacitinib tablets 10 mg twice daily. […]

Drug interactions

Table 7 includes drugs with clinically significant drug interactions when concomitantly used with tofacitinib tablets and instructions for preventing or managing them. Table 7: Clinically Significant Interactions Affecting Tofacitinib Tablets When Concomitantly Used with Other Drugs Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole) Clinical Impact Increased exposure to tofacitinib I ntervention Dosage modification of tofacitinib tablets is recommended [see Dosage and Administration (2 ), Clinical Pharmacology, Figure 3 (12.3 )] Mo derate CYP3A4 Inhibitors Concomitantly Used with Strong CYP2C19 Inhibitors (e.g., fluconazole) Clinical Impact Increased exposure to tofacitinib I ntervention Dosage modification of tofacitinib 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 I ntervention Concomitant use with tofacitinib 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 tablets with biologic DMARDs or potent immunosuppressants has not been studied in patients with RA, Ps A, AS, UC, or pc JIA. I ntervention Concomitant use with tofacitinib tablets is not recommended [ see Indications and Usage (1) , Clinical Pharmacology, Figure 3 (12.3) ] See FPI for clinically significant drug interactions. ( 2 , 7 )

Pregnancy, breastfeeding, children and older adults

Lactation : Advise not to breastfeed. ( 8.2 )

8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary The available data with tofacitinib tablets from a pregnancy exposure registry that enrolled 11 exposed pregnant females, pharmacovigilance, and published literature are insufficient to draw conclusions about a drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage, or other adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. There are risks to the mother and the fetus associated with RA and UC in pregnancy (see Clinical Considerations) . In animal reproduction studies, fetocidal and teratogenic effects were noted when pregnant rats and rabbits received tofacitinib during the period of organogenesis at exposures multiples of 73-times and 6.3-times the maximum recommended dose of 10 mg twice daily, respectively. Further, in a peri- and post-natal study in rats, tofacitinib resulted in reductions in live litter size, postnatal survival, and pup body weights at exposure multiples of approximately 73-times the recommended dosage of 5 mg twice daily and approximately 36 times the maximum recommended dosage of 10 mg twice daily, respectively (see Data). The background risks of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated populations are unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. The background risks in the U.S. general population of major birth defects and miscarriages are 2 to 4% and 15 to 20% of clinically recognized pregnancies, respectively. Clinical Considerations Disease-Associated Maternal and/or Embryo/Fetal Risk: Published data suggest that increased disease activity is associated with the risk of developing adverse pregnancy outcomes in women with RA or UC. Adverse pregnancy outcomes include preterm delivery (before 37 weeks of gestation), low birth weight (less than 2500 grams) infants, and small for gestational age at birth. Data Animal Data: In a rat embryofetal developmental study, in which pregnant rats received tofacitinib during organogenesis, tofacitinib was teratogenic at exposure levels approximately 146 times the recommended dose of 5 mg twice daily, and approximately 73 times the maximum recommended dose of 10 mg twice daily (on an AUC basis at oral doses of 100 mg/kg/day in rats). Teratogenic effects consisted of external and soft tissue malformations of anasarca and membranous ventricular septal defects, respectively; and skeletal malformations or variations (absent cervical arch; bent femur, fibula, humerus, radius, scapula, tibia, and ulna; sternoschisis; absent rib; misshapen femur; branched rib; fused rib; fused sternebra; and hemicentric thoracic centrum). In addition, there was an increase in post-implantation loss, consisting of early and late resorptions, resulting in a reduced number of viable fetuses. Mean fetal body weight was reduced. No developmental toxicity was observed in rats at exposure levels approximately 58 times the recommended dose of 5 mg twice daily, and approximately 29 times the maximum recommended dose of 10 mg twice daily (on an AUC basis at oral doses of 30 mg/kg/day in pregnant rats). In a rabbit embryofetal developmental study in which pregnant rabbits received tofacitinib during the period of organogenesis, tofacitinib was teratogenic at exposure levels approximately 13 times the recommended dose of 5 mg twice daily, and approximately 6.3 times the maximum recommended dose of 10 mg twice daily (on an AUC basis at oral doses of 30 mg/kg/day in rabbits) in the absence of signs of maternal toxicity. Teratogenic effects included thoracogastroschisis, omphalocele, membranous ventricular septal defects, and cranial/skeletal malformations (microstomia, microphthalmia), mid-line and tail defects. In addition, there was an increase in post-implantation loss associated with late resorptions. No developmental toxicity was observed in rabbits at exposure levels approximately 3 times the recommended dose of 5 mg twice daily, and approximately 1.5 times the maximum recommended dose of 10 mg twice daily (on an AUC basis at oral doses of 10 mg/kg/day in pregnant rabbits). In a peri- and postnatal development study in pregnant rats that received tofacitinib from gestation day 6 through day 20 of lactation, there were reductions in live litter size, postnatal survival, and pup body weights at exposure levels approximately 73 times the recommended dose of 5 mg twice daily, and approximately 36 times the maximum recommended dose of 10 mg twice daily (on an AUC basis at oral doses of 50 mg/kg/day in rats). There was no effect on behavioral and learning assessments, sexual maturation or the ability of the F1 generation rats to mate and produce viable F2 generation fetuses in rats at exposure levels approximately 17 times the recommended dose of 5 mg twice daily, and approximately 8.3 times the maximum recommended dose of 10 mg twice daily (on an AUC basis at oral doses of 10 mg/kg/day in rats).

8.2 Lactation Risk Summary Based on published data, tofacitinib is present in human milk. Data on the effects of tofacitinib on the breastfed infant is limited to a small number of cases with no reported adverse effects. There are no data on the effects on milk production. Given the serious adverse reactions seen in patients treated with tofacitinib tablets, such as increased risk of serious infections, advise patients that breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment and for at least 18 hours after the last dose of tofacitinib tablets(approximately 6 elimination half-lives). Data Following administration of tofacitinib to lactating rats, concentrations of tofacitinib in milk over time paralleled those in serum and were approximately 2 times higher in milk relative to maternal serum at all time points measured.

8.3 Females and Males of Reproductive Potential Contraception Females In an animal reproduction study, tofacitinib at AUC multiples of 13 times the recommended dosage of 5 mg twice daily and 6.3 times the maximum recommended dosage of 10 mg twice daily demonstrated adverse embryo-fetal findings [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1) ] . However, there is uncertainty as to how these animal findings relate to females of reproductive potential treated with the recommended clinical dosage. Consider pregnancy planning and prevention for females of reproductive potential. Infertility Females Based on findings in rats, treatment with tofacitinib tablets may result in reduced fertility in females of reproductive potential. It is not known if this effect is reversible [see Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1) ].

8.4 Pediatric Use The safety and effectiveness of tofacitinib tablets in pediatric patients for indications, other than in patients with active pcJIA and PsA, have not been established. The safety and effectiveness of tofacitinib tablets have not been established in pediatric patients less than 2 years of age. Polyarticular Course Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (pcJIA) The safety and effectiveness of tofacitinib tablets for the treatment of active pcJIA have been established in pediatric patients 2 years of age and older who have had an inadequate response or intolerance to one or more TNF blockers. Use of tofacitinib tablets for this indication is supported by evidence from adequate and well-controlled studies of tofacitinib tablets in adults with RA, pharmacokinetic (PK) data from adult patients with RA, and with additional safety, efficacy, and PK data from a clinical trial of tofacitinib tablets in pediatric patients 2 years and older with active pcJIA (Study pcJIA-I) [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) , Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) , and Clinical Studies (14.1 , 14.4) ]. Adverse reactions observed in pediatric patients with pcJIA who received tofacitinib tablets were consistent with those reported in adults with RA [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]. […]

How it works

Tofacitinib is a Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor. JAKs are intracellular enzymes which transmit signals arising from cytokine or growth factor-receptor interactions on the cellular membrane to influence cellular processes of hematopoiesis and immune cell function. Within the signaling pathway, JAKs phosphorylate and activate Signal Transducers and Activators of Transcription (STATs) which modulate intracellular activity including gene expression. Tofacitinib modulates the signaling pathway at the point of JAKs, preventing the phosphorylation and activation of STATs. JAK enzymes transmit cytokine signaling through pairing of JAKs (e.g., JAK1/JAK3, JAK1/JAK2, JAK1/TyK2, JAK2/JAK2). Tofacitinib inhibited the in vitro activities of JAK1/JAK2, JAK1/JAK3, and JAK2/JAK2 combinations with IC 50 of 406, 56, and 1377 nM, respectively. However, the relevance of specific JAK combinations to therapeutic effectiveness is not known.

Is there a generic Tofacitinib?

Yes. The FDA has approved generic Tofacitinib from 22 companies whose approvals are active. The earliest of these was approved in 2021.

An FDA approval does not always mean the generic is already in pharmacies: patent disputes and settlements can delay a launch for years. Your pharmacist can tell you whether a generic is actually available and covered by your plan.

The FDA rates these generics as therapeutically equivalent to the brand ("A" rating): same active ingredient, strength, dosage form and effect. Pharmacists can usually substitute them unless the prescriber says otherwise.

Companies with an approved generic

Ajanta Pharma Ltd, Apotex, Aurobindo Pharma Ltd, Biocon Pharma, Breckenridge, Concord Biotech Ltd, Dexcel, Hikma, Macleods Pharms, Micro Labs, Msn, Orient Pharma, Pharmaco, Saptalis Pharms, Sciegen Pharms, Sinotherapeutics Inc, Somerset Theraps Llc, Specgx Llc, Sun Pharm Inds Inc, Teva Pharms Usa, Yaopharma Co Ltd, Zydus Pharms

Brand-name versions

Source: Drugs@FDA (via openFDA), checked October 29, 2026. Marketing status is what companies report to the FDA; whether a pharmacy stocks a product, and what your insurance covers, can differ.

Dosage:
we do not reproduce dosing instructions. The right dose depends on the person and the condition and is set by the prescriber or pharmacist. Dosage section of the full label.

Tofacitinib in the news

We have not covered this medicine yet. Latest news

Recalls

No recalls matched to this medicine in FDA enforcement reports from the last 3 years (or older ones still open). Search all recalls

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Source: FDA structured product labeling, retrieved through openFDA. Label text is shown as published by the FDA, without editing; long sections are shortened, marked […]. openFDA data are not validated for clinical use — always check the current label and ask a doctor or pharmacist about your own treatment. Set ID 253635c8-1ea7-41ba-b216-dea5e3305c47.


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Important: this content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice, a prescribing instruction, or a recommendation to act. Consult a licensed healthcare professional before taking any medication.

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