Litfulo (Ritlecitinib Tosylate) is a prescription medication used to treat severe alopecia areata in adults and children at least 12 years old. Severe alopecia refers to significant hair loss that goes beyond patches of lost hair. It can manifest as complete loss of scalp hair or complete loss of all body hair. The active ingredient in Litfulo is Ritlecitinib Tosylate. Ritlecitinib Tosylate belongs to a class of drugs called kinase inhibitors. It works by blocking certain enzymes in the body, primarily JAK3 and TEC kinases, which play a role in inflammation and the immune response. This action helps to reduce the immune system's attack on hair follicles, reducing hair loss.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand Litfulo from Canada, manufactured by Pfizer, in the strength of 50 mg capsules. The generic Ritlecitinib Tosylate is currently unavailable (at this pharmacy).
Get medical help immediately if you have any of these signs or an allergic reaction while using Litfulo. The most common side effects of Litfulo may include the following:
• Acne;
• Diarrhea;
• Dizziness;
• Fever;
• Headache
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the severe side effects, including:
• Burning sensation when you urinate or painful urination;
• Muscle aches;
• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as trouble breathing, hives, swelling of the face, lips, or throat;
• Slurred speech;
• Unexplained weight loss
These are not all of Litfulo's side effects. Always contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.
You should not use Litfulo if you are allergic to Ritlecitinib Tosylate or any ingredient in Litfulo. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant;
• Are scheduled to receive a vaccine;
• Have a recurring infection;
• Have any active cancer;
• Have blood in your phlegm or chronic cough;
• Have diabetes;
• Have had hepatitis B or C;
• Have had shingles;
• Have heart problems;
• Have severe liver disease;
• Have tuberculosis or have been in close contact with someone with tuberculosis
Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be drug interactions between Litfulo and other medicines, such as acetaminophen, codeine, rifampicin, clozapine, propranolol, etc. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. This drug can harm an unborn baby. Use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy when using Litfulo. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. Ritlecitinib Tosylate passes into breast milk and may harm a nursing infant. Do not breastfeed when using this medication and for at least 14 hours after your last dose or as advised by your doctor.
Use this medicine exactly as your doctor prescribes it. Litfulo is a capsule. Do not open, break, or chew it. Swallow the capsule whole with water. You may take this drug with or without food. Avoid receiving Live vaccines while using Litfulo. This medicine can lower your immune system's ability to fight infections. Your doctor will run tests to confirm if you have infections before prescribing Litfulo. Store this drug at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.