Is tofacitinib (Shangjie) a biological agent and how is it different from traditional DMARDs?

Tofacitinib is not a biological agent, but an oral small molecule targeted drug that belongs to the category of JAK inhibitors (Janus kinase inhibitors). It blocks the JAK-STAT signaling pathway, thereby inhibiting the production of inflammatory factors, reducing immune responses and improving arthritis symptoms. Because of its small molecular weight, rapid oral absorption, and clear target, it is classified as a "synthetic small molecule targeted DMARD" (tsDMARD), rather than an injectable biological agent.

Compared with traditional DMARD (such as methotrexate, sulfasalazine, leflunomide, etc.), the mechanism of tofacitinib is more precise. It acts on key signaling pathways within cells rather than broadly suppressing the immune system. Traditional DMARD often takes a long time to take effect and has a wide range of side effects; tofacitinib takes effect relatively quickly, and symptoms such as joint pain and swelling can usually be improved within a few weeks. In addition, tofacitinib does not require regular injections, and oral administration also improves patient compliance.

The difference between tofacitinib and biological agents (such as anti- TNF, anti-IL-6 , etc.) mainly lies in the production method and target characteristics. Biological agents are usually produced by cell engineering technology, have large molecular weight, require subcutaneous injection or intravenous infusion, and target specific cytokines or receptors. Tofacitinib is a chemically synthesized small molecule drug that can enter cells and block the downstream signals of multiple inflammatory factors. Therefore, it has a wider scope of action, but it also means that more stringent infection risk monitoring is required, such as paying attention to risks such as herpes zoster and lung infection.

In general, tofacitinib, as a tsDMARD, provides an important treatment option between traditional DMARDs and biological agents in the treatment of diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis and ulcerative colitis. It works quickly, is easy to use, and has clear targets, but requires close monitoring of blood routine, liver function, and infection risk. From the overall clinical value, tofacitinib provides a new and effective treatment option for patients who cannot tolerate traditional DMARD or have insufficient response to biological agents.

Keyword tag:

Tofacitinib, Shangjie, biological agents, traditionalDMARDdifference, JAK inhibitor, tsDMARD, mechanism of action, speed of onset of action, risk of infection

Reference materials:https://go.drugbank.com/drugs/DB08895