What are the side effects of Deuruxolitinib?
Last updated September 7, 2026.
The most common side effects of deuruxolitinib (brand name Leqselvi) are headache, acne, upper respiratory infections, folliculitis, fatigue, and changes in hair texture. Most of these are mild and show up in the first weeks as your body adjusts. Because deuruxolitinib is a JAK inhibitor, it also carries a boxed warning for serious infections, blood clots, major heart events, cancer, and death, which is why your clinician screens you for tuberculosis and hepatitis and rechecks blood counts, lipids, and liver tests during treatment. Your genetics matter here too: people who are CYP2C9 poor metabolizers, and people taking strong CYP2C9 inhibitors such as fluconazole, should not take this drug because levels build up too high. Report fever, cough that will not quit, shingles-type rash, or leg swelling and chest pain right away rather than waiting for your next visit.
What to do
- Get screened first: Confirm you have had tuberculosis and hepatitis B and C testing before your first dose.
- Know your genotype: Ask whether your CYP2C9 status was checked, since poor metabolizers should not take this drug.
- Check your drug list: Tell your clinician about fluconazole, amiodarone, and any other CYP2C9 inhibitor before starting.
- Keep lab appointments: Blood counts, lipids, and liver tests are rechecked on a schedule to catch problems early.
- Act on infection signs: Fever, chills, a burning rash, or a cough that lasts more than a few days needs a same-week call.
- Treat clot symptoms as urgent: Sudden leg swelling and pain, chest pain, or shortness of breath means emergency care now.
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