Jakavi contains ruxolitinib, a targeted oral medication used to treat certain blood-related cancers and disorders. It is most commonly prescribed for patients with myelofibrosis, a rare type of bone marrow cancer, and polycythemia vera, a condition where the body makes too many red blood cells. Jakavi works by calming down an overactive immune and blood cell production system, which helps relieve symptoms like fatigue, night sweats, and an enlarged spleen.

Mechanism of Action
Ruxolitinib is a selective inhibitor of Janus-associated kinases (JAK1 and JAK2). These enzymes play a key role in signaling pathways that control blood cell production and immune function. In conditions like myelofibrosis and polycythemia vera, JAK signaling is abnormally active, leading to excessive cell growth and inflammation. By blocking JAK1 and JAK2, Jakavi helps restore balance, reducing abnormal cell growth and inflammation, and improving overall blood cell function.

Uses
Jakavi is used in adults for:

• Myelofibrosis (including primary myelofibrosis or post-polycythemia vera/post-essential thrombocythemia myelofibrosis)

• Polycythemia vera, especially in patients who do not respond well to or cannot tolerate hydroxyurea

• Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) in some settings, under the supervision of a specialist

  Adverse Effects
  Common side effects of Jakavi include:

  • Low blood cell counts, especially anemia or low platelets

  • Headache

  • Dizziness

  • Weight gain

  • Increased liver enzymes

  • Bruising or bleeding easily