Betrecep 5 mg contains Tofacitinib, a small molecule classified as a Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor. It is an oral immunomodulatory medicine used to treat various chronic inflammatory autoimmune conditions.
Unlike traditional injectable biologics, tofacitinib is taken by mouth, offering convenience for long-term treatment. It works by dampening the overactive immune response that drives conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and ulcerative colitis.

Mechanism of Action

Tofacitinib inhibits Janus kinases (JAK1 and JAK3) — enzymes that transmit signals from immune-related cytokines to the nucleus of immune cells via the JAK-STAT pathway.

• By blocking this pathway, tofacitinib reduces the activity of inflammatory mediators such as interleukins and interferons.

• This results in decreased immune cell activation, reducing inflammation and halting tissue damage in autoimmune conditions.

• It is a targeted synthetic DMARD (Disease-Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drug), distinguishing it from biologic DMARDs by its oral route and intracellular mechanism.

  Uses / Indications

  Betrecep (Tofacitinib 5 mg) is approved for the management of:

  1. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) – in adults who have had inadequate response or intolerance to methotrexate.

  2. Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA) – as monotherapy or with conventional DMARDs.

  3. Ulcerative Colitis (UC) – moderate to severe cases in adults.

  4. Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) – in patients not responding well to other therapies.

  5. Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) – in children (≥2 years) in some settings.

     Adverse Effects

     While tofacitinib can significantly improve quality of life, it does carry potential risks — especially related to immune suppression.

     Common side effects:

     • Headache

     • Nausea or indigestion

     • High cholesterol levels

     • Upper respiratory tract infections

     • High blood pressure