Tofacitinib

Abstract

Tofacitinib (Xeljanz®), is a small molecule that inhibits Janus kinases. They are responsible for signal transduction for activation of pro-inflammatory - cytokine receptors. Tofacitinib binds ATP and prevents autoactivation of Janus kinases. It is used in the treatment of chronic inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis or Crohn's disease. However, it is also effective against other inflammatory diseases, such as juvenile idiopathic arthritis. The recommended dosage of tofacitinib is 5 mg twice daily, or 10 mg twice daily. However, with a higher dose regimen, side effects such as serious infections or herpes zoster are more common.