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Ruxolitinib Side Effects
In some cases, people may experience significant side effects with ruxolitinib. Notify your healthcare provider immediately if you are using this medicine and experience potentially serious problems, such as fever, a painful skin rash, or shortness of breath. While some people tolerate this medication well, most people will develop some type of side effect. Common problems include bruising, dizziness, and headaches.
Just like any medicine, ruxolitinib (Jakafi™) can cause side effects. In some cases, the side effects can be significant. Although not everyone who takes the medication will have problems, most people will experience some type of side effect during ruxolitinib treatment. Talk to your healthcare provider about ways you can manage some of these reactions.
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with this drug. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list with you.)
Some side effects of ruxolitinib are potentially serious and should be reported immediately to your healthcare provider. These include but are not limited to:
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
- An unexplained rash
- Hives
- Itching
- Unexplained swelling, especially of the mouth, lips, or throat
- Wheezing
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Signs of anemia, such as:
- Extreme tiredness
- Pale skin
- Shortness of breath
- Painful skin rash or blisters, which could be signs of shingles
- Signs of infection, such as:
- Fever
- Chills
- Aches and pains
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Painful urination
- Any unusual bruising or bleeding.
Written by/reviewed by: Susan Lakey, PharmD, MPH, BCPP
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD