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Ruxolitinib Oral Tablet (RUXOLITINIB - ORAL)

This medicine is used for the following purposes:

  • bone marrow disorder
  • prevent organ transplant rejection

Brand Name(s): Jakafi

Generic Name: Ruxolitinib

Instructions

Swallow the medicine without crushing or chewing it.

This medicine may be taken with or without food.

Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture. Do not keep in the bathroom.

Avoid grapefruit juice while on this medicine.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you forget a dose, just wait. Use the next dose at the usual time. Do not use 2 doses at once.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Do not take the medicine more than twice during 24 hours.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Some patients on this medicine have developed severe, life-threatening infections. Please speak with your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medicine.

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

If possible, avoid using with marijuana or other medicines that can cause dizziness or drowsiness. These include allergy/cold products, muscle relaxers, sleep aids, and pain relievers.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

If you drink more than a few alcoholic beverages each day, ask your doctor whether you should be on this medicine.

Call the doctor if there are any signs of confusion or unusual changes in behavior.

This medicine may reduce your body's ability to fight infections. Avoid contact with people with colds, flu or other infections. Contact your doctor if you develop fever, cough, sore throat, or chills.

Speak with your health care provider before receiving any vaccinations.

Do not breastfeed while on this medicine. You may safely start breastfeeding 2 weeks after stopping treatment.

During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Always refill this medicine before it runs out.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • bloating
  • diarrhea
  • dizziness
  • headaches
  • weight gain

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • bleeding or bruising
  • chest pain
  • changes in memory, mood, or thinking
  • difficulty concentrating
  • confusion
  • fever or chills
  • sudden leg pain, swelling, warmth or redness
  • loss of movement anywhere on the body
  • seizures
  • shortness of breath
  • skin changes - a darker area with uneven edges or coloring
  • difficulty speaking
  • symptoms of stroke (such as one-sided weakness, slurred speech, confusion)
  • unusual or unexplained tiredness or weakness
  • blurring or changes of vision
  • weakness

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.