| 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 |
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
Tocilizumab is used to treat autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, giant cell arteritis, and cytokine release syndrome by inhibiting interleukin-6 (IL-6).
Tocilizumab works by blocking the IL-6 receptor, which is involved in the inflammatory process, helping to reduce inflammation and prevent damage to tissues in autoimmune diseases.
Common side effects include headache, upper respiratory infections, and high blood pressure. Serious side effects may include liver damage and increased risk of infections.
Tocilizumab is administered as an intravenous (IV) infusion or subcutaneous injection, depending on your condition and doctor�s recommendation.
Yes, Tocilizumab can increase the risk of serious infections due to its immunosuppressive effects. You should be regularly monitored for infections during treatment.
Tocilizumab is generally not recommended during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary. Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
If you miss a dose of Tocilizumab, contact your healthcare provider for guidance. Never take an additional dose on your own to make up for the missed one.
Tocilizumab helps manage rheumatoid arthritis by reducing inflammation and preventing damage to joints, leading to reduced pain and improved mobility.
Tocilizumab may interact with other immunosuppressive drugs, vaccines, and medications that affect liver function. Always inform your doctor about all medications you're taking.
It may take a few weeks to a few months for Tocilizumab to show noticeable improvements in inflammation and symptoms, depending on the condition being treated.
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