Jakafi: A Comprehensive Guide to Uses, Dosage, Demographic, Side Effects, Interactions, and Generic Options What is Jakafi? Jakafi is a medication used to treat certain myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN), which are a group of blood cancers that cause the body to produce too many cells in the bone marrow. Jakafi is the brand name for the active ingredient ruxolitinib, which works by blocking certain enzymes that contribute to the abnormal growth of blood cells. Uses of Jakafi Jakafi is primarily used to treat the following MPNs: 1. Polycythemia vera (PV): a condition in which the body produces too many red blood cells, causing the blood to thicken and leading to an increased risk of blood clots. 2. Myelofibrosis (MF): a condition in which the bone marrow is replaced by scar tissue, leading to anemia, fatigue, and other symptoms. Jakafi has also been approved by the FDA to treat certain types of acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), a complication that can occur after a bone marrow transplant. Dosage of Jakafi The recommended starting dosage for Jakafi is based on the patient's platelet count and kidney function. The dosage may be adjusted over time based on the patient's response to the medication and any side effects that may occur. For PV, the recommended starting dose is 10 mg twice daily, and the maximum dose is 100 mg twice daily. For MF, the recommended starting dose is 15 mg twice daily for patients with a platelet count greater than 200,000/mm3, and 5 mg twice daily for patients with a platelet count between 100,000/mm3 and 200,000/mm3. The maximum dose is 25 mg twice daily. For acute GVHD, the recommended starting dose is 5 mg twice daily, and the maximum dose is 10 mg twice daily. Demographic for Jakafi Jakafi is primarily used in adults, and there is no adequate data on the use of Jakafi in pregnant or breastfeeding women. Jakafi may not be appropriate for patients with certain medical conditions, such as liver or kidney problems. Side Effects of Jakafi Like all medications, Jakafi can cause side effects. The most common side effects of Jakafi include: 1. Anemia 2. Thrombocytopenia 3. Bruising 4. Dizziness 5. Headache 6. Fatigue 7. Nausea 8. Diarrhea 9. Constipation 10. Rash 11. Viral infections 12. Weight gain Jakafi may also cause more serious side effects, including: 1. Increased risk of infections 2. High blood pressure 3. Changes in liver function tests 4. Increased risk of skin cancer and lymphoma 5. Development of new or worsening of existing autoimmune diseases It is important to talk to your doctor about any side effects you may experience while taking Jakafi. Interactions with Jakafi Jakafi may interact with other medications, including: 1. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, such as ketoconazole, clarithromycin, and ritonavir, which may increase the level of Jakafi in the body. 2. Strong CYP3A4 inducers, such as rifampin and phenytoin, which may decrease the level of Jakafi in the body. 3. Medications that affect platelet function, such as aspirin and warfarin, which may increase the risk of bleeding. 4. Live vaccines, which should be avoided while taking Jakafi. Generic Options for Jakafi As of 2021, there are currently no generic versions of Jakafi available on the market. However, ruxolitinib is the active ingredient in Jakafi, and there may be generic options available in the future. Conclusion Jakafi is a medication used to treat certain MPNs, such as PV and MF, as well as acute GVHD. It is important to talk to your doctor about the appropriate dosage and to report any side effects that may occur while taking Jakafi. While there are currently no generic versions of Jakafi available, ruxolitinib is the active ingredient, and there may be generic options in the future.