Jaknat is a Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor containing tofacitinib as its active ingredient. It is manufactured by Natco Pharma Ltd. and is primarily used to treat various autoimmune conditions by modulating immune system activity.

Jaknat (Tofacitinib) tablet belongs to the group of medicines called Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors. It is a JAK1/JAK3 inhibitor authorised for use in several countries to treat moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis managed under the Department of Orthopaedics), and Ulcerative colitis (managed under the  Department of Gastroenterology, especially in patients who have had an inadequate response to other therapies. Jaknat tablet selectively inhibits JAK enzymes involved in the signalling pathways of pro-inflammatory cytokines, thereby reducing immune system overactivity and inflammation in autoimmune disorders. Jaknat Tablet – Uses, Side Effects, Composition, and Dosage

Composition

• Jaknat 5mg: Tofacitinib 5mg (immediate-release) - Strip of 10 tablets
• Jaknat 10mg: Tofacitinib 10mg (immediate-release) - Strip of 10 tablets
• Jaknat 11mg XR: Tofacitinib 11mg (extended-release) - Strip of 10 tablets

Medical Uses of Jaknat Tablet

Jaknat is prescribed under the care of specialist departments.

1. Department of Orthopaedics

• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): Helps manage joint pain, swelling, stiffness, and prevents long-term deformity.
  
  
• Psoriatic Arthritis: Reduces joint inflammation and improves mobility while also controlling psoriasis symptoms.
  
  
• Ankylosing Spondylitis: Targets spinal inflammation, reducing stiffness and improving posture.

2. Department of Gastroenterology

• Ulcerative Colitis: By reducing inflammation in the intestinal lining, Jaknat decreases diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, and rectal bleeding, leading to improved gut function.

Mechanism of Action

Jaknat works by selectively inhibiting JAK enzymes (primarily JAK1 and JAK3) that are involved in inflammatory signaling pathways. By blocking these enzymes, it:

• Disrupts JAK-STAT signaling cascade
• Reduces production of inflammatory mediators
• Decreases immune system overactivity
• Controls inflammation in autoimmune disorders

Primary Uses

Approved Indications:

1. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) - Reduces joint pain, stiffness, swelling; slows joint damage
2. Psoriatic Arthritis - Controls joint inflammation and skin symptoms
3. Ankylosing Spondylitis - Reduces spinal and joint inflammation, improves flexibility
4. Ulcerative Colitis - Reduces colon inflammation, relieves abdominal pain and diarrhea
5. Polyarticular Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis - For children aged 2+ years
6. Juvenile Psoriatic Arthritis - Pediatric indication

Off-label Uses:

• Refractory systemic rheumatic diseases (SAPHO syndrome)
• Challenging dermatologic conditions (atopic dermatitis, alopecia areata, plaque psoriasis)
• Other immune-mediated inflammatory conditions

Dosage Guidelines

Adults:

• RA, Psoriatic Arthritis, Ankylosing Spondylitis:
  • 5mg twice daily (immediate-release) OR 11mg once daily (extended-release)
• Ulcerative Colitis:
  • Induction: 10mg twice daily for up to 8 weeks
  • Maintenance: 5mg twice daily

Pediatric Dosing:

• Children 2+ years: Weight-based dosing determined by pediatric specialists

Special Populations:

• Hepatic Impairment: Reduce to 5mg once daily (moderate impairment)
• Renal Impairment: Reduce to 5mg once daily if creatinine clearance <30 ml/min
• Elderly: No specific dose adjustment, but increased monitoring required

Administration Guidelines

• Take exactly as prescribed by physician
• Swallow tablets whole with water (do not crush, chew, or break)
• Can be taken with or without food (with food may reduce stomach upset)
• Take at same time each day for consistent effects
• If dose missed: Take as soon as possible unless close to next dose
• Never double doses

Side Effects of Jaknat Tablet

As with all immune-modulating drugs, Jaknat may cause side effects. These can be divided into common mild effects and serious risks.

Common Side Effects

• Headache
• Nausea or stomach upset
• Diarrhoea
• Fatigue or weakness
• Nasal congestion or cough

Serious Side Effects

• Infections: Since immunity is suppressed, patients may develop respiratory infections, shingles, or urinary tract infections.
• Blood disorders: Reduced white or red blood cells in some cases.
• Raised liver enzymes: Can indicate liver stress, requiring monitoring.
• Increased cholesterol levels
• Blood clots in rare cases, especially at higher doses.

Doctors usually recommend regular blood tests (CBC, LFT, lipid profile) to track these risks.

 Contraindications

Do NOT use Jaknat if:

• Active infections (bacterial, viral, fungal, mycobacterial)
• Severe liver impairment (Child-Pugh C)
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Children under 18 years (except for specific juvenile conditions)
• History of serious malignancies (use with extreme caution)

Warnings and Precautions

Critical Monitoring Requirements:

• Regular blood tests: Complete blood count, liver enzymes, lipid levels
• Infection screening: TB screening before starting treatment
• Cardiovascular monitoring: Especially in patients with risk factors
• Cancer surveillance: Regular check-ups for malignancy signs

High-Risk Situations:

• Patients with history of blood clots
• Smokers (increased cancer risk)
• Elderly patients
• Immunocompromised individuals
• Patients with cardiovascular risk factors

Drug Interactions

Increase Jaknat Levels (Reduce dose):

• Ketoconazole, ritonavir, voriconazole (CYP3A4 inhibitors)

Decrease Jaknat Effectiveness:

• Rifampin, St. John's Wort, apalutamide (enzyme inducers)

Avoid Combinations:

• Other JAK inhibitors
• Biologic DMARDs (abatacept)
• Potent immunosuppressants (azathioprine, cyclosporine)
• Live vaccines

Alcohol:

• Use cautiously or avoid due to potential liver effects

Storage Instructions

• Store at room temperature
• Keep in cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
• Keep out of reach of children

Emergency Situations

Seek immediate medical attention for:

• Signs of serious infection (fever, persistent cough, unusual fatigue)
• Symptoms of blood clots (chest pain, shortness of breath, leg swelling)
• Severe abdominal pain
• Signs of allergic reaction (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)
• Unusual bleeding or bruising

Important Patient Education Points

1. Never stop suddenly - Always consult doctor before discontinuing
2. Report infections immediately - Even minor symptoms
3. Avoid live vaccines during treatment
4. Regular monitoring is essential for safety
5. Inform all healthcare providers about Jaknat use
6. Practice infection prevention - good hygiene, avoid sick contacts

Pregnancy and Lactation

• Pregnancy: Only if potential benefit justifies risk (consult doctor)
• Breastfeeding: Not recommended unless directed by healthcare professional
• Contraception: Effective birth control recommended during treatment

👉 For more Healthcare Information: https://www.pacehospital.com/blog

👉 Book an Appointment with Top doctors in Hyderabad, Telangana, India.

Conclusion

Jaknat Tablet (Tofacitinib) has revolutionized the management of autoimmune disorders by providing an oral, targeted therapy for conditions that were previously difficult to treat with conventional medicines. Its ability to block JAK enzymes helps reduce chronic inflammation, relieve pain, stiffness, and bowel inflammation in diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and ulcerative colitis.

However, with its benefits come certain risks—including susceptibility to infections and blood-related side effects—making it essential for patients to be closely monitored by experts in Orthopaedics and Gastroenterology.

Jaknat should always be taken exactly as prescribed, with regular lab check-ups and adherence to safety precautions. For patients struggling with uncontrolled autoimmune disease, Jaknat offers hope for a better quality of life and improved daily functioning.