Filgotinib is used on its own or together with another medicine to treat rheumatoid arthritis (inflammation in the joints of fingers, wrist, feet, and ankles).
This medicine may also be used to treat ulcerative colitis (a disease that causes inflammation and sores in the linings of the large intestine and rectum).
Take Filgotinib exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
You may take this medicine with or without food. Try to take it at the same time each day.
Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not divide, crush or chew the tablet.
The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on your condition and response to the medication.
Filgotinib must be taken regularly for it to be effective. Continue taking this medicine even when you feel better. Do not stop taking it unless instructed by the doctor.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Alert your doctor if you have an active serious infection or active TB (lung infection known as tuberculosis) as Filgotinib may not be suitable for you.
Do not take this medicine if you are pregnant or planning to have a baby soon. If you become pregnant while being treated with Filgotinib, alert your doctor immediately. This medicine may cause harm to your unborn child. You must use proven birth control methods during Filgotinib therapy and for at least 1 week after stopping the treatment.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- long-term or recurrent infection
- history of infection or condition that may increase the risk of infection
- history of blood clots in your leg veins
- history of blood clots in a lung artery
- current or history of cancer
- moderate to severe kidney disease
- severe liver disease
Let your doctor know if you are breastfeeding.
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving Filgotinib to the elderly. Elderly people may be more sensitive to the side effects.
Inform your doctor if you have resided in or travelled to areas with endemic cases of TB or fungal infections.
If you are going to have an operation, including minor surgery and dental work, inform your doctor or dentist that you are taking this medicine.
Inform your doctor if you have been recently vaccinated. Do not receive any vaccinations without first asking your doctor.
Why is it important to keep my appointments with the doctor?
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
- Pregnancy tests and screening for TB or viral hepatitis (liver infection) must be done before treatment to know if this medicine is suited for you to take.
- Routine tests (e.g. liver function, blood counts, cholesterol levels) may be done while you are being treated with this medicine. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.
- Regular monitoring of signs or symptoms of infection and formation of blood clots may also be needed.
Filgotinib may cause dizziness or dizziness with sensations of spinning. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- frequent sore throat, mouth sores, fever, chills or sweating, cough
- pain or difficulty in passing urine, blood in the urine, pain in the lower abdomen
- shortness of breath, chest pain, cough which may contain blood
- pain, swelling and tenderness in your leg accompanied by redness and warmth
- changes in mole colour or size, skin lump or growth
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Avoid vaccinations with live vaccines during treatment with Filgotinib. Inform your doctor if you have been recently vaccinated or if you are planning to get vaccinated.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Protect from moisture.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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