Jakafi Side Effects

Generic name: ruxolitinib

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Dec 29, 2023.

Note: This document contains side effect information about ruxolitinib. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply to the brand name Jakafi.

Applies to ruxolitinib: oral tablet.

Serious side effects of Jakafi

Along with its needed effects, ruxolitinib (the active ingredient contained in Jakafi) may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking ruxolitinib:

More common

• Black, tarry stools
• bladder pain
• bleeding gums
• blood in the urine or stools
• blurred vision
• bruising
• chest tightness
• chills
• cloudy urine
• collection of blood under the skin
• cough
• coughing up blood
• deep, dark purple bruise
• difficult, burning, or painful urination
• difficulty in breathing or swallowing
• dizziness
• fever
• frequent urge to urinate
• headache
• hoarseness
• increased menstrual flow or vaginal bleeding
• itching, pain, redness, or swelling
• large, flat, blue or purplish patches in the skin
• lower back or side pain
• nervousness
• nosebleeds
• painful or difficult urination
• pale skin
• paralysis
• pinpoint red spots on the skin
• pounding in the ears
• prolonged bleeding from cuts
• pus in the urine
• red or dark brown urine
• small, red or purple spots on the skin
• slow or fast heartbeat
• sore throat
• swelling
• tenderness, pain, swelling, warmth, skin discoloration, and prominent superficial veins over the affected area
• trouble breathing
• ulcers, sores, or white spots in the mouth
• unusual bleeding or bruising
• unusual tiredness or weakness

Less common

• Painful blisters on the trunk of the body

Incidence not known

• Anxiety
• burning or stinging of the skin
• chest pain
• fainting
• pain, redness, or swelling in the arm or leg
• painful cold sores or blisters on the lips, nose, eyes, or genitals
• pains in the chest, groin, or legs, especially calves of the legs
• persistent non-healing sore
• pink growth
• reddish patch or irritated area
• severe headaches of sudden onset
• sudden loss of coordination
• sudden onset of slurred speech
• sudden vision changes
• shiny bump
• white, yellow, or waxy scar-like area

Other side effects of Jakafi

Some side effects of ruxolitinib may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

• Bloated or full feeling
• diarrhea
• excess air or gas in the stomach or bowels
• feeling of constant movement of self or surroundings
• passing gas
• sensation of spinning
• skin rash
• weight gain

For Healthcare Professionals

Applies to ruxolitinib: oral tablet.

Dermatologic

Very common (10% or more): Bruising (up to 23.2%)

Common (1% to 10%): Herpes zoster^[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

Common (1% to 10%): Flatulence, gastrointestinal bleeding^[Ref]

Genitourinary

Very common (10% or more): Urinary tract infection (up to 14.4%)^[Ref]

Hematologic

Very common (10% or more): Anemia (up to 96.1%), thrombocytopenia (up to 69.8%), neutropenia (up to 18.7%)^[Ref]

Immunologic

Common (1% to 10%): Tuberculosis

Frequency not reported: Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy^[Ref]

Metabolic

Very common (10% or more): Hypercholesterolemia (up to 17.4%), weight gain (up to 10%)^[Ref]

Nervous system

Very common (10% or more): Dizziness (up to 18.1%), headache (up to 14.8%)

Common (1% to 10%): Intracranial bleeding^[Ref]

General

The most common adverse reactions were anemia, thrombocytopenia, bruising, dizziness, and headache.^[Ref]

Cardiovascular

Very common (10% or more): Bleeding (up to 32.6%)^[Ref]

Hepatic

Very common (10% or more): ALT increased (up to 27.1%), AST increased (up to 19.3%)^[Ref]

Frequently asked questions

• What are JAK inhibitors and how do they work?
• Which JAK inhibitors are approved in the U.S?
• What are the most common skin conditions? (with photos)

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA.

Medical Disclaimer