Xeljanz and Cholesterol tests
My Rheumatologist is talking about changing my meds. and is leaning towards Xeljanz. All the literature on the drug says it messes up cholesterol tests. I had a small stroke and the conversation went from "your cholesterol is a little high you should try to lower it" to "OMG that's too high after a first stroke you need to lower it to 80!"
How can I monitor Cholesterol levels if the drug changes the tests? Has anyone had any issues with this?
There are label warnings for the three prescription oral RA medications known as JAK inhibitors. Here is a nice paper about the issue.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4716749/
rick
Thanks for reaching out. This is a great question and valid concern. I hope others in our community can chime in and share their personal experiences with you. Be sure to discuss this with your doctor, if you haven't already. Your cholesterol levels wound need to be closely monitored. In addition to speaking with your doctor, this article on How Xeljanz works and possible side effects may be helpful: https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/treatment/xeljanz-reviews-how-well-does-it-work. It's a decision to make along side your doctor after weighing the risk benefit for you personally. Wishing you clarity in deciding on your treatment plan and relief ahead! Best, Kelly, Rheumatoidarthritis.net Team Member 
Hi
. Your concerns are certainly understandable. I looked at a number of research papers, which all noted that JAK inhibitors increased lipids. The drugs and this effect are relatively new, so one common conclusion is more study is needed to determine overall and long-term impact. It does appear that the research determined that the increase is reversible. Your situation is, of course, different given your history and what the doctor said about your cholesterol. As Rick and Kelly said, it is paramount to work closely with your doctors (and hopefully get them to communicate) to determine the best course of action. Wishing you the best and please feel free, if you like, to keep us posted on how you are doing. Richard (RheumatoidArthritis.net Team) 
Oh, sorry I forgot to mention about cholesterol... I'm already on a med to help lower my cholesterol from my cardiologist, so I would not be able to speak to that.
