What are the contraindications for the use of filgotinib? Patients should pay attention to

Filgotinib is a Janus kinase inhibitor (JAK inhibitor) used to treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and ulcerative colitis (UC). By inhibiting JAK1 kinase, it helps reduce the inflammatory response caused by abnormally active immune system and improves patients' symptoms. However, there are some contraindications and precautions that patients should pay special attention to when using filgotinib.

1. Contraindicated in patients with active tuberculosis or other serious infections.

Filgotinib suppresses the immune system and may increase the risk of infections, especially tuberculosis and other serious infections. In patients with active tuberculosis, use of filgotinib may worsen the disease and increase the patient's risk of death. Therefore, tuberculosis screening must be performed and active tuberculosis excluded before starting filgotinib. If the patient is receiving anti-tuberculosis treatment, filgotinib should be used with special caution and monitored closely during treatment.

In addition to tuberculosis, any other serious infection such as bacterial, fungal, viral or opportunistic infection is also not suitable for use with filgotinib. Physicians need to evaluate the risks versus benefits of using filgotinib in patients with a history of serious infections.

2. Disabled during pregnancy and lactation

Based on animal studies and clinical observations, filgotinib may have adverse effects on the fetus and pregnant women should avoid using this drug. Use of this drug during pregnancy may increase the risk of miscarriage and fetal development defects. Women of childbearing potential need to ensure that they are on contraceptive status while taking filgotinib and continue to do so for at least 1 month after the last dose.

Additionally, it is unknown whether filgotinib is excreted in breast milk and affects a nursing infant. Therefore, breastfeeding women should also avoid the use of filgotinib. If this medication must be used, the nursing mother should discontinue breastfeeding and use alternative feeding methods.

Keyword tags: filgotinib,Filgotinib, contraindications, tuberculosis, pregnancy, liver function, immunosuppression, hypertension, rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis

Reference materials:https://go.drugbank.com/drugs/DB14845