Xeljanz Xr For Rheumatoid Arthritis

I am a female early 60's. Have been taking xeljanz 5mg 2x daily for approx 1 yr 3 months. Recently switched to Xeljanx Xr. Right from the start, the swelling in my fingers went down, and are still down somewhat. However fatigue (and ironically insomnia), headaches, back pain, and more joint deformity of hands and toes that were nowhere near as bad before xeljanz are taking place. Also getting dizziness, ear tingling, and tingling in left hand so bad that it's hard to use sometimes. Cannot complete simple activities like tearing off a piece of scotch tape off a roll, or open jars etc.

My RA doc says this is just joints "reshaping" baby finger on left hand has separated far apart from other fingers. One left toe has also completely crossed over another one which makes it hard to wear shoes. I'm at my wits end. Don't know who to talk to or what to change to.
Also, rapid weight gain over several months with no change in diet.

Anyone else experienced any further joint damage with fingers and toes as I have? I thought this was supposed to stop that. Not "reshape" as RA doc says. To top it off, I know I'm forgetting some symptoms and physical observations.

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Unfortunately, a medication like Xeljanz can help treat RA, and prevent some of the symptoms, but there is no actual cure for it, and nothing will completely arrest it, and prevent any further changes from developing.

The side effects you've mentioned have all been listed in FDA reports about this medication, you may also experience diarrhea, burning during urination, and cough.

However, it could be that it just isn't working for you, any longer, and you may need to look into other options.

Have you considered consulting a different doctor for a second opinion?

Is this the only medication you are currently taking?

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