Answer Summary

Members shared experiences of weight gain while taking Jakafi, with increases ranging from 5 to 25 pounds, often attributing it to a... Read more

Members shared experiences of weight gain while taking Jakafi, with increases ranging from 5 to 25 pounds, often attributing it to a combination of the medication and factors like depression, lower energy levels, and reduced activity. Several members described managing this side effect by maintaining healthy eating habits, regular exercise like walking or gym visits, and focusing on the bigger picture that Jakafi was successfully stabilizing their blood counts and reducing severe symptoms like pain and aquagenic pruritus. A recurring theme was acceptance of trade-offs, with many expressing that while weight gain and other side effects like high cholesterol were frustrating and difficult to reverse, the relief from debilitating symptoms and improved blood stability made the medication worth continuing.