Jakavi (Ruxolitinib 5 mg Tablets) – Medical Uses, Dosage & Safety
Jakavi® (Ruxolitinib 5 mg Tablets) is a prescription oral medicine that belongs to the class of Janus Kinase (JAK) inhibitors, selectively targeting JAK1 and JAK2 enzymes. It is used to control abnormal immune responses and blood cell activity in serious hematologic and immune-mediated disorders.
The oral tablet formulation of ruxolitinib is intended for systemic treatment under specialist supervision. Although topical ruxolitinib is used in dermatology, Rulicent 5 mg tablets are not approved for vitiligo treatment.
Approved Medical Indications
Myelofibrosis
Jakavi is indicated for adults with primary myelofibrosis and myelofibrosis that develops after polycythemia vera or essential thrombocythemia. Treatment helps:
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Reduce spleen enlargement
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Improve fatigue, weakness, and night sweats
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Control inflammation-related symptoms
Polycythemia Vera
Jakavi is prescribed for patients with polycythemia vera who do not respond adequately to, or cannot tolerate, standard therapies. It helps by:
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Regulating excessive red blood cell production
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Improving blood circulation
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Reducing disease-related complications
Graft-Versus-Host Disease (GVHD)
Jakavi is approved for acute and chronic GVHD in patients who do not respond to corticosteroid therapy following bone marrow or stem cell transplantation. It suppresses harmful immune activity and helps limit tissue inflammation.
Dosage & Administration of Jakavi ruxolitinib 5 mg tablets JAK1 JAK2 inhibitor medicine
Jakavi dosing is individualized and determined by a healthcare specialist based on:
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The condition being treated
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Platelet count and blood test results
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Patient response and tolerance
General guidance:
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Taken orally, usually twice daily
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With or without food
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Dose adjustments are common during treatment
⚠️ Patients should never change the dose without medical advice.
Possible Side Effects
Common Side Effects
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Anemia (low red blood cell count)
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Thrombocytopenia (low platelet count)
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Neutropenia (low white blood cell count)
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Headache
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Dizziness
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Fatigue
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Increased risk of infections
Serious but Less Common Side Effects
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Severe bacterial, viral, or fungal infections
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Reactivation of tuberculosis or shingles
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Bleeding complications
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Elevated liver enzymes
Routine blood monitoring is essential throughout treatment.
Contraindications
Jakavi should not be used in patients with:
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Known allergy to ruxolitinib
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Active, uncontrolled infections
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Extremely low blood cell counts (unless directed by a specialist)
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Severe liver impairment without dose adjustment
Warnings & Precautions
Caution is required in patients with:
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History of frequent or chronic infections
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Tuberculosis or viral hepatitis
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Liver or kidney disease
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Increased bleeding risk
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Compromised immune function
Regular laboratory testing is required to ensure treatment safety.
Drug Interactions
Rulicent 5 may interact with:
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Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (certain antifungals and antibiotics)
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Other immunosuppressive medicines
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Drugs affecting blood cell production
Always inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
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Not recommended during pregnancy
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Breastfeeding should be avoided during treatment
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Effective contraception is advised for patients of reproductive potential
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Jakavi used for?
Jakavi is used to treat myelofibrosis, polycythemia vera, and graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) by controlling abnormal immune and inflammatory signaling.
Is Jakavi approved for vitiligo?
No. Jakavi tablets are not approved for vitiligo. Only topical ruxolitinib formulations are used in dermatology.
How does Jakavi work?
It blocks JAK1 and JAK2 enzymes involved in immune activation and blood cell production, helping reduce inflammation and disease symptoms.
Does Jakavi increase infection risk?
Yes. Because it suppresses immune activity, patients may have an increased risk of infections and should report symptoms promptly.
Is long-term treatment possible?
Yes, some patients require long-term therapy, but ongoing medical monitoring is essential.
Important Safety Notes
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Prescription-only medicine
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Specialist supervision required
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Not a dermatology treatment in tablet form
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Do not stop treatment suddenly without medical advice
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Jakavi (Ruxolitinib) should be used only under the supervision of a qualified healthcare specialist.
