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Actemra - Tocilizumab

Bharat Pothuri Medically Reviewed by Dr. Bharat Pothuri, MD, FACG
Brand Name
Actemra
Generic Name
Tocilizumab
Drug Class
Interleukin-6 (IL-6) Receptor Antagonist
Availability
Prescription
Manufacturer
Roche
Indications
Ulcerative Colitis, Crohn's Disease
Type
Injection, IV Infusion
Doses
4 mg/kg every 4 weeks (induction), then maintenance dosing
Route
IV Infusion
Side Effects
Infections, high blood pressure, liver enzyme elevation, injection site reactions
Interactions
IL-6 receptor blocker; affects CYP450; monitor liver enzymes
Overdose
Not established.
Missed Dose
Experimental; follow protocol.
Contraindications
Active infections, hepatic impairment, GI perforation.
Alternatives
Vedolizumab, Ustekinumab, Infliximab
Co-Pay Assistance Program
Not available
Patient Assistance Program
Available

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Tocilizumab used for?

Tocilizumab is applied in the case of autoimmune diseases, e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, giant cell arteritis, and cytokine release syndrome via inhibiting interleukin-6 (IL-6).

How does Tocilizumab work?

The action of tocilizumab is to inhibit the effect of IL-6 receptor; this receptor plays a role in inflamed system and in the case of autoimmune diseases it aids to reduce inflammation and also prevent tissue damage.

What are the usual adverse effects of Tocilizumab?

The usual side effects are upper respiratory infections, headache and high blood pressure. The side effects can also be serious such as liver trauma and high risk of infections.

What is the recommended mode of administration of Tocilizumab?

Tocilizumab is either through infusion or as a subcutaneous injection, either intravenous (iv) or subcutaneous depending on your condition and the recommendation of your doctor.

Does Tocilizumab lead to increased infections?

Yes, because Tocilizumab is immunosuppressive, there is the possibility of serious infections. Infections should be frequently checked in the course of treatment.

Is Tocilizumab safe in the case of pregnancy?

Tocilizumab is contraindicated in pregnancy unless being absolutely necessary. It is recommended to consult your doctor in case you are pregnant or are planning to be pregnant.

So what will happen when I miss the dose of Tocilizumab?

In case you have missed taking a dose of Tocilizumab, you should get in touch with your health care provider. Do not do this by yourself and miss the effect and take an extra one.

What is the effect of Tocilizumab in rheumatoid arthritis?

Tocilizumab is an immunologic agent that serves in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis by lowering the inflammation and precluding the harm to the joints, and, therefore, lowers the pain and enhances their movement.

Tocilizumab then interacts with other drugs?

Tocilizumab can be used in combination with other immunosuppressive medications, vaccines, and drugs that can influence the functioning of the liver. Nonstop inform your doctor of any medication you are taking.

What is the duration of action of Tocilizumab in showing results?

The duration Tocilizumab might take to manifest observable effects on the inflammation and symptoms would depend on the condition under treatment taking a few weeks up to several months.