Ruxolitinib reduces myelofibrosis-related splenomegaly and symptom burden, and improves quality-of-life measures, according to a recent review. In addition, ruxolitinib has been linked with improved survival compared with placebo or conventional therapy.

The authors advise closely monitoring blood counts and managing doses carefully, particularly early in the course of therapy.

Starting doses and dose reductions should be used as recommended based on platelet counts. A dose-escalation approach at the start of therapy is only recommended for patients with platelet counts of 50 to 100 × 10(9)/L. If possible, maximum tolerated doses should be maintained and extended treatment interruptions should be avoided to prevent lack or loss of treatment responses. An individualized dosing approach is key to long-term treatment success.