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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 a JAK inhibitor that treats different types of inflammatory problems (like psoriatic arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis) in adults. It's also used for certain kinds of arthritis in children ages 2 years and older. Xeljanz (tofacitinib) is taken by mouth once or twice per day. It's a good option for people who've tried other medications already, but the medication has side effects like a higher risk of infections, headache, and diarrhea. It also has serious risks, including heart problems and blood clots.

    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 juvenile idiopathic arthritis (pJIA) in children ages 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
    •Works well to treat many types of inflammatory problems
    •Good option for people who haven't responded well to other treatments
    •Available as immediate-release and extended-release tablets
    •Liquid form available if you have trouble swallowing
    Cons
    •Potential to cause many serious side effects (e.g., certain cancers, serious infections, blood clots, stomach problems)
    •Can raise cholesterol levels
    •Not recommended to breastfeed while taking the medication
    •Not completely clear whether it's safe to take during pregnancy
    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%)
    •Muscle damage (3-7%)
    •Rash (3-6%)
    •Diarrhea (2-5%)
    •Stomach infection (3-4%)
    •Anemia (2-4%)

    Note: The side effects you have might differ based on your dose and the reason why you're taking Xeljanz (tofacitinib).

    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
    •Serious infections
    •Possible higher risk of death for people with rheumatoid arthritis
    •Possible risk of cancer
    •Risk of heart attack, stroke, and blood clots
    •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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