Xeljanz (tofacitinib) vs Olumiant (baricitinib)

Xeljanz (tofacitinib) and Olumiant (baricitinib) are both Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors used to treat certain autoimmune conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, by modulating the immune response. Xeljanz is typically dosed twice daily and has a broader range of FDA-approved indications, including ulcerative colitis, while Olumiant is usually taken once daily and, as of the knowledge cutoff date, is approved for rheumatoid arthritis and may have a different side effect profile. When deciding between the two medications, it is important to consider individual health history, potential drug interactions, and specific condition indications, and this decision should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider who can tailor the treatment to the patient's unique needs.

Difference between Xeljanz and Olumiant

Metric	Xeljanz (tofacitinib)	Olumiant (baricitinib)
Generic name	Tofacitinib	Baricitinib
Indications	Rheumatoid arthritis, Psoriatic arthritis, Ulcerative colitis	Rheumatoid arthritis, Atopic dermatitis
Mechanism of action	Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor	Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor
Brand names	Xeljanz, Xeljanz XR	Olumiant
Administrative route	Oral	Oral
Side effects	Upper respiratory tract infections, Headache, Diarrhea, Nasopharyngitis	Upper respiratory tract infections, Nausea, Thrombosis, Increased liver enzymes
Contraindications	Severe liver impairment, Active serious infections, Severe renal impairment	History of thrombosis, Active serious infections, Severe hepatic impairment
Drug class	JAK inhibitor	JAK inhibitor
Manufacturer	Pfizer	Eli Lilly and Company

Efficacy

Xeljanz (Tofacitinib) Efficacy in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Xeljanz (tofacitinib) is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors. It is approved for the treatment of adults with moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who have had an inadequate response or intolerance to methotrexate. The efficacy of Xeljanz in the treatment of RA has been demonstrated in several clinical trials. Patients treated with Xeljanz have shown significant improvements in joint pain, swelling, and physical function compared to those on placebo. Additionally, Xeljanz has been found to inhibit the progression of joint damage in patients with RA.

In clinical studies, Xeljanz, taken orally twice daily, has been shown to reduce the signs and symptoms of RA, and its effectiveness was comparable to that of some biologic treatments for RA. The drug's efficacy was observed as early as two weeks after the start of treatment. However, the response to treatment can vary among individuals, and not all patients may experience the same level of symptom relief.

Olumiant (Baricitinib) Efficacy in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Olumiant (baricitinib) is another JAK inhibitor approved for the treatment of adults with moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis who have not responded adequately to one or more tumor necrosis factor (TNF) antagonist therapies. Clinical trials have shown that Olumiant can reduce symptoms of RA, improve physical function, and slow the progression of structural joint damage. The drug is administered orally once daily and has been evaluated in a comprehensive clinical trial program in RA, which included placebo and active-controlled trials.

Studies have indicated that patients taking Olumiant experienced significant improvements in clinical response and physical function compared to those taking placebo, with some patients achieving remission of symptoms. The efficacy of Olumiant was also sustained over time, with long-term extension studies supporting its continued benefit. As with other treatments, individual responses to Olumiant can vary, and it may not be suitable for everyone with RA. Patients should discuss the potential benefits and risks of Olumiant with their healthcare provider.

Regulatory Agency Approvals

Xeljanz

European Medical Agency (EMA), European Union
Food and Drug Administration (FDA), USA
Health Canada
Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), Australia

Olumiant

European Medical Agency (EMA), European Union
Food and Drug Administration (FDA), USA
Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), Australia

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