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Drug interactions

Temozolomide + Tofacitinib

Severity: Major

Temozolomide and Tofacitinib: major interaction.

Last updated

For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.

Summary

Temozolomide causes myelosuppression and lymphopenia, and tofacitinib also suppresses immune function and can lower lymphocyte and neutrophil counts. Together they increase the risk of serious infection, including opportunistic infections.

What this interaction means in plain words

Temozolomide and Tofacitinib can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.

Temozolomide belongs to Oncology; Tofacitinib belongs to Musculoskeletal.

Evidence level: Low

Why it happens

Additive immunosuppression and bone marrow suppression.

What to do

Avoid the combination if an alternative exists. If both are needed, monitor blood counts regularly and watch closely for infection.

What to ask your pharmacist

  • Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
  • Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
  • What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Temozolomide with Tofacitinib?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Temozolomide and Tofacitinib can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Temozolomide causes myelosuppression and lymphopenia, and tofacitinib also suppresses immune function and can lower lymphocyte and neutrophil counts. Together they increase the risk of serious infection, including opportunistic infections.

How serious is the interaction between Temozolomide and Tofacitinib?

MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid the combination if an alternative exists. If both are needed, monitor blood counts regularly and watch closely for infection.

What other medicines interact with Tofacitinib?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Tofacitinib with, for example, Baricitinib, Cladribine, Upadacitinib. The full list is on the Tofacitinib page.

Full monographs, dosing and an interaction checker in the MediHelp app

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