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Compare Xeljanz vs. Remicade

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Xeljanz (tofacitinib) and Remicade (infliximab) are both used to treat inflammatory and autoimmune conditions, but they have some key differences. Xeljanz is a tablet that can be taken once or twice daily depending on formulation, while Remicade is given through an IV infusion every 6 to 8 weeks by a healthcare professional. Xeljanz is available in both immediate-release and extended-release tablets, as well as a liquid form, whereas Remicade does not have a generic form and is only available as an injection. Xeljanz can be used for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and ulcerative colitis in both adults and children, while Remicade treats similar conditions but is also approved for Crohn's disease and severe plaque psoriasis. Xeljanz has a higher risk of serious side effects like heart problems and blood clots, while Remicade can cause severe infections and liver problems.

  • Xeljanz (tofacitinib)
    Remicade (infliximab)
  • Xeljanz (tofacitinib)
    Remicade (infliximab)

  • Summary of Xeljanz vs. Remicade

    Summary for JAK inhibitor
    Prescription only

    Xeljanz (tofacitinib) is an oral medication that can treat different inflammatory problems. It can help adults with psoriatic arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and ulcerative colitis, among other conditions. It's also helpful for children with a certain kind of arthritis. Xeljanz (tofacitinib) is a JAK inhibitor that lowers inflammation in the body. It comes as a tablet or liquid that's taken twice a day. There's also a longer-lasting once-daily tablet for adults. Xeljanz (tofacitinib) is a good option for people who've tried other medications first. But it can have side effects like headache, diarrhea, and a higher risk of infection. This medication is brand name only; there isn't a generic yet.

    Summary for Biologic DMARD
    Prescription only

    Remicade (infliximab) is an injectable medication used to treat many autoimmune conditions, including ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. It's given through an intravenous (IV) infusion by a healthcare provider.

  • Indications of Xeljanz vs. Remicade

    Indications for
    •Moderate-to-severe rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in adults
    •Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) in adults
    •Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) in adults
    •Moderate-to-severe ulcerative colitis (UC) in adults
    •Moderate-to-severe polyarticular course juvenile idiopathic arthritis (pcJIA) in children 2 years and older - immediate-release tablets and liquid only
    Indications for
    •Moderate-to-severe Crohn's disease (CD)
    •Moderate-to-severe ulcerative colitis (UC)
    •Moderate-to-severe rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
    •Ankylosing spondylitis (AS)
    •Psoriatic arthritis (PsA)
    •Severe plaque psoriasis (PsO)

  • Pros and Cons of Xeljanz vs. Remicade

    Pros and Const for JAK inhibitor
    Pros
    •Liquid form available for the immediate-release version if you have trouble swallowing pills whole
    •Extended-release, once-daily tablets available for adults
    •Good option for people when other treatments haven't worked well
    Cons
    •Has potentially serious risks (e.g., serious infections, blood clots)
    •Can raise cholesterol levels
    •Not clear if it's safe to take during pregnancy
    •Breastfeeding not recommended during treatment
    Pros and Const for Biologic DMARD
    Pros
    •Can be used for many autoimmune conditions
    •Typically only needs to be given every 6 to 8 weeks
    •Can be used in children 6 years of age and older for UC and CD
    Cons
    •Can only be given as an IV infusion by a healthcare professional
    •Can cause a lot of side effects
    •Brand name only, which can be expensive

  • Common Side Effects of Xeljanz vs. Remicade

    Common Side Effects for

    Arthritis:

    •Upper respiratory tract infection (4%)
    •Nose and throat infection (3-4%)
    •Diarrhea (3-4%)
    •Headache (3-4%)

    Ulcerative colitis:

    •Nose and throat infection (10-14%)
    •High cholesterol (5-9%)
    •Headache (3-9%)
    •Upper respiratory tract infection (6-7%)
    •Lab results suggesting muscle damage (3-7%)
    •Rash (3-6%)
    •Diarrhea (2-5%)
    •Stomach infection (3-4%)
    •Anemia (2-4%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Infections
    •Nausea
    •Infusion-related reactions (e.g., headache, flushing, shortness of breath, rash)
    •Headache
    •Diarrhea
    •Stomach pain
    •Sore throat
    •Cough
    •Rash
    •Bronchitis
    •Indigestion
    •Tiredness
    •General pain
    •Joint pain

  • Warnings of Xeljanz vs. Remicade

    Common Side Effects for
    •Risk of serious infections
    •Possible higher risk of death for some older people with rheumatoid arthritis
    •Possible risk of cancer
    •Risk of blood clots, heart attack, or stroke
    •Stomach problems
    •Allergic reactions
    •Low blood cell counts
    •Liver damage
    Common Side Effects for
    •Serious or deadly infections
    •Cancer
    •Liver problems and liver failure
    •Heart problems
    •Low blood cell counts
    •Nervous system problems
    •Medications to avoid

  • Prices with our coupons for Xeljanz vs. Remicade

    Learn more about Xeljanz
    Learn more about Remicade

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