Ruxolitinib is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with certain types of myelofibrosis (MF), a rare type of bone marrow cancer. It is also used to treat polycythemia vera (PV), another type of bone marrow cancer, in adults who did not get better after taking other PV medicines. Ruxolitinib works by blocking certain proteins that cause the overproduction of white blood cells and the enlargement of the spleen. This helps to reduce symptoms of MF and PV, such as fatigue, swelling of the abdomen, night sweats, and itching.
Ruxolitinib is a medication used to treat specific blood cancers and a complication that can arise after a bone marrow transplant. Here's a closer look at its key features:
Type of medication:
- Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor [1, 2].
Conditions it treats:
- Myelofibrosis (a type of bone marrow cancer) [1, 2].
- Polycythemia vera (a blood cancer causing too many red blood cells) when hydroxyurea isn't effective [1, 2].
- Steroid-refractory acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) in adults and children 12 and older (a complication after stem cell transplant) [1, 2].
How it works:
- Inhibits JAK proteins, which are involved in cell signaling pathways important for some blood cancers [1, 2]. By blocking these pathways, ruxolitinib helps control the growth and spread of cancer cells [1].
- In GVHD, it weakens the immune system's attack on healthy tissues [2].
Brand names:
- Jakafi (most common) and others [1].
Availability:
- Typically comes in tablet form taken by mouth [1].
Important things to know:
- Ruxolitinib is not a cure, but it can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life [2].
- Common side effects include low blood cell counts (increasing risk of infection), anemia (fatigue), nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and bruising [1, 2].
- It can interact with other medications, so inform your doctor about all medications you take [1].
- Regular blood tests are needed while taking ruxolitinib [1].
Before taking Ruxolitinib:
- Discuss your medical history and any other medications you take with your doctor [1].
- Tell your doctor if you have liver or kidney problems [1].
- Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take ruxolitinib [1].