Answer
Aug 19, 2026 - 02:17 PM
Xeljanz and Xeljanz XR contain the same active medication, tofacitinib. The main difference is how quickly the medication is released and how often it is taken.
- Xeljanz is the immediate-release version. For many adult indications, a common regimen is 5 mg twice daily.
- Xeljanz XR is the extended-release version. A commonly corresponding regimen is 11 mg once daily, designed to release tofacitinib gradually throughout the day.
Both are JAK inhibitors and generally have the same major warnings, side effects, drug interactions, and monitoring requirements.
One practical difference is that Xeljanz XR tablets must be swallowed whole and should not be crushed, split, or chewed because doing so can interfere with the extended-release mechanism.
So, in simple terms: Xeljanz = shorter-acting and usually taken twice daily; Xeljanz XR = longer-acting and usually taken once daily. Your prescribed dose can vary depending on the condition being treated, kidney/liver function, and interacting medications.
