Actemra 162mg Injection

Introduction

Actemra is a prescription medication that contains the active ingredient Tocilizumab. It is available under the brand name Actemra. Tocilizumab is classified as an immunosuppressive drug and is primarily used to treat certain inflammatory conditions.

Uses

Actemra is prescribed for the following conditions:

• Rheumatoid arthritis: It is used to reduce signs and symptoms, prevent joint damage, and improve physical function in adult patients with moderate to severe active rheumatoid arthritis.
• Giant cell arteritis: It is used to treat adult patients with giant cell arteritis who are at risk of developing serious complications.

Dosage and Administration

Actemra is administered as an intravenous infusion. The dosage and administration schedule may vary depending on the specific condition being treated and the patient’s response to the medication. Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional. They will determine the appropriate dose and frequency of administration for your individual needs.

Mechanism of Action

Tocilizumab, the active ingredient in Actemra, works by blocking a specific protein called interleukin-6 (IL-6). IL-6 is involved in the immune response and inflammation processes in the body. By inhibiting the action of IL-6, Tocilizumab helps reduce inflammation and alleviate the symptoms associated with conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and giant cell arteritis.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Upper respiratory tract infections
• Headache
• Increased blood pressure
• Elevated liver enzymes
• Nasopharyngitis

Serious side effects may occur in some patients. If you experience any of the following, seek immediate medical attention:

• Severe allergic reactions (e.g., difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, throat, or tongue)
• Infections (e.g., fever, chills, persistent cough, signs of infection)
• Hepatitis B reactivation (e.g., yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, abdominal pain)
• Gastrointestinal perforations (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, vomiting)

Drug Interactions

Actemra may interact with certain medications. Inform your healthcare professional about all the medications you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, as well as any herbal supplements. Some common and serious drug interactions include:

• Live vaccines: Tocilizumab may interfere with the effectiveness of live vaccines. Consult your healthcare professional for guidance on vaccination while using this medication.
• CYP450 enzyme inhibitors or inducers: Medications that inhibit or induce CYP450 enzymes may affect the metabolism of Tocilizumab, potentially altering its efficacy or increasing the risk of side effects. Your healthcare professional will monitor you closely if you are taking any of these medications.

Precautions

Before using Actemra, consider the following precautions:

• Contraindications: Do not use Actemra if you have a known hypersensitivity to Tocilizumab or any of its components.
• Infections: Tocilizumab may increase the risk of infections. Inform your healthcare professional if you have a history of recurrent infections or any signs of an infection during treatment.
• Hepatitis B: Patients with a history of hepatitis B infection should be closely monitored for signs of hepatitis B reactivation.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: The safety of Actemra in pregnant or breastfeeding women has not been established. Consult your healthcare professional before using this medication if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Storage

Patient Tips

• Follow the dosage and administration instructions provided by your healthcare professional.
• Inform your healthcare professional about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements.
• Report any signs of infection, such as fever, cough, or persistent sore throat, to your healthcare professional.
• Attend regular follow-up appointments to monitor your response to the medication and any potential side effects.
• Store the medication properly in the refrigerator and protect it from light.
• If you have any questions or concerns about your treatment, do not hesitate to consult your healthcare professional for clarification.

Please note that this description, as well as the other content on our website is for educational purposes only. We do not provide medical advice. For specific medical advices, diagnoses and treatment options you should consult with your doctor.

References

• RoActemra 162 mg Solution for Injection in Pre-Filled Pen (Health Professionals SmPC) Available at:
• Tocilizumab (Drugs.com) [Accessed 16 Jun. 2024] (online) Available at:
• tocilizumab solution (RX) [Accessed 0 Jun. 2024] (online) Available at:
• Tocilizumab Injection (MedlinePlus) [Accessed 30 Jun. 2024] (online) Available at:
• Stone JH, Tuckwell K, Dimonaco S, Klearman M, Aringer M, Blockmans D, Brouwer E, Cid MC, Dasgupta B, Rech J, Salvarani C, Schett G, Schulze-Koops H, Spiera R, Unizony SH, Collinson N. Trial of Tocilizumab in Giant-Cell Arteritis. N Engl J Med. 2017 Jul 27;377(4):317-328. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa1613849. [Accessed 1 Jun. 2024] Available at: