Ruxolitinib (Jakafi)

General information

Class/mechanism: Kinase inhibitor of Janus Associated Kinases (JAKs) JAK1 and JAK2. Modulates gene expression by interfering with the JAK signaling pathway, which involves recruitment, activation, and localization of STATs (signal transducers and activators of transcription) to cytokine receptors and the nucleus.
Route: PO
Extravasation: n/a

For conciseness and simplicity, HemOnc.org currently will focus on treatment regimens and not list information such as: renal/hepatic dose adjustments, metabolism (including CYP450), excretion, monitoring parameters (although this will be considered for checklists), or manufacturer. Instead, for the most current information, please refer to your preferred pharmacopeias such as Micromedex, Lexicomp, UpToDate (courtesy of Lexicomp), or the prescribing information.

Diseases for which it is used

• Acute myeloid leukemia
• Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and Small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL)
• Hypereosinophilic syndrome
• Myelofibrosis
• Polycythemia vera

Patient drug information

• Patient information may be found in the Ruxolitinib (Jakafi) package insert
• Ruxolitinib (Jakafi) patient drug information (Chemocare)
• Ruxolitinib (Jakafi) patient drug information (UpToDate)

History of changes in FDA indication

• 11/16/2011: Initial FDA approval for treatment of patients with intermediate or high-risk myelofibrosis, including primary myelofibrosis, post-polycythemia vera myelofibrosis and post-essential thrombocythemia myelofibrosis.
• 12/4/2014: FDA indication expanded "for the treatment of patients with polycythemia vera (PV) who have had an inadequate response to or are intolerant of hydroxyurea (HU)."

Also known as

• Code name: INCB018424
• Generic name: ruxolitinib phosphate
• Brand names: Jakafi, Jakavi