Last reviewed · How we verify

Tofacitinib tablet

Shanghai Zhongshan Hospital · FDA-approved active Small molecule

Tofacitinib inhibits Janus kinase (JAK) enzymes to suppress inflammatory cytokine signaling and reduce immune-mediated inflammation.

Tofacitinib inhibits Janus kinase (JAK) enzymes to suppress inflammatory cytokine signaling and reduce immune-mediated inflammation. Used for Rheumatoid arthritis, Ulcerative colitis, Polyarticular course juvenile idiopathic arthritis.

At a glance

Generic nameTofacitinib tablet
Also known asXeljanz
SponsorShanghai Zhongshan Hospital
Drug classJAK inhibitor
TargetJAK1, JAK3
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaImmunology
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Tofacitinib is a JAK inhibitor that blocks the JAK-STAT signaling pathway, which is critical for the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines like interferon-gamma, interleukin-2, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha. By inhibiting JAK1 and JAK3 preferentially, it reduces T-cell proliferation and activation, thereby suppressing the inflammatory response in autoimmune and inflammatory conditions.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.

SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results