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Why is Xeljanz Hard on the Liver?
Pre-approval clinical trials for Xeljanz conducted by Pfizer determined that patients who used the drug were more likely to have elevated levels of serum enzymes and other chemicals, including:
- Alanine transaminase (ALT)
- Aspartate transaminase (AST)
- Bilirubin
These serum enzymes are indicators of liver health, and altered levels of these chemicals are signs that the liver is being strained, damaged, or compromised.
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Xeljanz Liver Damage Study
One multiple comparison tests conducted on Xeljanz analyzed 25 different studies that looked at rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and psoriasis patients who took Xeljanz to treat their condition.
The researchers compared the liver function and enzyme levels of patients using Xeljanz to a placebo group who did not take the drug.
Findings indicated that the participants who took Xeljanz were more likely to have elevated liver enzymes compared to those in the placebo group. In certain instances, these levels were more than 3 times the upper limit of normal (ULN):
| Group Taking Xeljanz (8,115) | Group on Placebo (1,841) | |
| ALT Above the ULN | 20.9% | 15.7% |
| ALT Three Times Above the ULN | 1.2% | 0.8% |
| AST Above the ULN | 15.0% | 9.6% |
| AST Three Times Above the ULN | 0.6% | 0.5% |
| Total Bilirubin Above the ULN | 3.3% | 2.3% |
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Liver Damage Symptoms
In its early stages, liver disease doesn’t always cause identifiable symptoms. However, when they do occur, they may include:
- Skin and eyes that appear yellowish (jaundice)
- Abdominal pain and swelling
- Swelling in the legs and ankles
- Itchy skin
- Dark urine color
- Pale stool color
- Chronic fatigue
- Nausea or vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Tendency to bruise easily
Treatment
Certain minor to moderate liver problems can be treated with lifestyle changes, such as quitting Xeljanz, stopping alcohol use, or losing weight, typically as part of a medical program that includes monitoring liver function. Other more severe liver problems may require prescription medications or surgical intervention.
Can You Feel Liver Damage?
Liver pain manifests in different ways for different people; however, a common symptom is a dull throbbing. For some people, it occurs as a sharp, stabbing pain. For others, the pain migrates to other nearby parts of the body, such as the right shoulder blade or back.
What Foods are Good for Liver Repair?
The liver is part of the body’s natural detoxification system which filters out toxins. Foods that can help repair the liver include berries, cruciferous vegetables, beans, whole grains, nuts, and fatty fish. Coffee and green tea contain antioxidants that are beneficial for liver health.
FAQs
How can I minimize the risk of liver damage while taking Xeljanz?
To minimize the risk of liver damage, follow your healthcare provider’s dosage instructions carefully, avoid consuming alcohol, and inform your doctor about all other medications and supplements you are taking. Regular liver function tests are crucial to monitor your liver health.
Can liver damage from Xeljanz be reversed?
Mild liver damage can often be reversed if detected early and treated promptly by discontinuing the medication. However, severe liver damage may have long-term effects and require ongoing medical care. Early detection and intervention are key to improving outcomes.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before starting Xeljanz?
Before starting Xeljanz, discuss your medical history, including any liver conditions, alcohol use, and all medications and supplements you are taking. Your healthcare provider may recommend baseline liver function tests and regular monitoring to ensure your liver remains healthy during treatment.
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Get a Free Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Attorneys
The Pharmaceutical Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP law firm is an experienced team of trial attorneys that focus on the representation of plaintiffs in Lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new class action lawsuits against Xeljanz in all 50 states.
Free Lawsuit Evaluation: Again, if you were harmed after taking Xeljanz to treat rheumatoid arthritis, you should contact our attorneys immediately. Xeljanz patients may be entitled to a settlement for medical expenses by filing a class action lawsuit and our Attorneys can help.
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