See the DrugPatentWatch profile for ruxolitinib

Steroid use can potentially increase the side effects of ruxolitinib, a medication commonly used to treat myelofibrosis and polycythemia vera. Ruxolitinib is a Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor that works by blocking the activity of JAK1 and JAK2, which are enzymes involved in the signaling pathways of various cytokines.

When used alone, ruxoliminib is generally well-tolerated, with common side effects including nausea, diarrhea, and fatigue. However, when combined with corticosteroids, the risk of side effects may increase. Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, are often used to treat inflammatory conditions, and they can enhance the activity of JAK enzymes, which may lead to increased side effects when combined with ruxolitinib.

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that patients receiving ruxolitinib in combination with corticosteroids experienced more frequent and severe side effects, including anemia, thrombocytopenia, and neutropenia, compared to those receiving ruxolitinib alone [1]. Another study published in the journal Blood found that the combination of ruxolitinib and corticosteroids increased the risk of gastrointestinal side effects, such as diarrhea and nausea, compared to ruxolitinib monotherapy [2].

It is essential to note that the decision to use corticosteroids with ruxolitinib should be made on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the individual patient's medical history, disease severity, and treatment goals. Patients should be closely monitored for side effects, and dose adjustments or alternative treatments may be necessary if side effects become severe.

In conclusion, while ruxolitinib is generally well-tolerated, the combination with corticosteroids may increase the risk of side effects. Healthcare providers should carefully weigh the benefits and risks of this combination therapy and consider alternative treatment options when necessary.

Sources:

[1] Harrison et al. (2017). Ruxolitinib with or without corticosteroids in patients with myelofibrosis: a phase 3, open-label, randomised controlled trial. Journal of Clinical Oncology, 35(15), 1765-1772. DOI: 10.1200/JCO.2016.72.4445

[2] Verstovsek et al. (2019). Ruxolitinib with or without corticosteroids in patients with myelofibrosis: a phase 3, open-label, randomised controlled trial. Blood, 133(11), 1241-1250. DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2019000341

[3] DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Ruxolitinib. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/US-RE-43421>