Actemra

Also known as / Brand Names

Actemra is the brand name for the drug Tocilizumab. It is also available under its generic name Tocilizumab in some regions. Other international brand names may include RoActemra, especially in European countries.

Product Introduction

Actemra (Tocilizumab) is a prescription biologic medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as interleukin-6 (IL-6) receptor antagonists. It is primarily used in the management of autoimmune diseases by targeting the IL-6 receptor, a key driver of inflammation in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Actemra is administered either intravenously (IV) or subcutaneously, depending on the condition being treated and the patient’s response. It was developed by Genentech and Chugai, subsidiaries of Roche, and has gained FDA and EMA approvals for several inflammatory conditions.

Uses of Actemra

  • Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) – moderate to severe cases in adults
  • Systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (SJIA) in children aged 2 years and above
  • Polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (PJIA)
  • Giant cell arteritis (GCA)
  • Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS) caused by CAR T-cell therapy
  • COVID-19 related inflammatory complications in hospitalized patients (off-label/emergency use)

Benefits of Actemra

Actemra helps reduce the symptoms and progression of inflammatory autoimmune diseases by blocking IL-6, a cytokine that plays a central role in immune response and inflammation. The key benefits include:

  • Reduction in joint pain, swelling, and stiffness
  • Improved physical function and mobility
  • Delay in disease progression and joint damage
  • Improvement in systemic symptoms such as fever and fatigue
  • Enhanced quality of life and reduced disability
  • For CRS, it can rapidly counteract life-threatening inflammatory responses

Side Effects of Actemra

Like all medications, Actemra may cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Some of the common and serious side effects include:

  • Common: Headache, upper respiratory tract infections, elevated liver enzymes, high blood pressure, injection site reactions.
  • Serious: Serious infections (e.g., tuberculosis, pneumonia), liver problems, gastrointestinal perforation, increased cholesterol levels, and infusion-related reactions.
  • Blood abnormalities: Decreased white blood cells and platelets.
  • Hypersensitivity: Rare allergic reactions including rash and anaphylaxis.

Safety Advice

Condition Advice
Pregnancy CAUTION – Limited human data available. Animal studies suggest potential risk. Use only if clearly needed and prescribed by a doctor.
Breastfeeding SAFE IF PRESCRIBED – Small amounts may pass into breast milk but are unlikely to harm the infant. Should be used under medical advice.
Driving Actemra may cause dizziness or fatigue. If affected, avoid driving or operating machinery.
Kidney Generally safe. No significant dose adjustment is needed in patients with mild to moderate kidney impairment.
Liver Use with caution. Actemra can raise liver enzyme levels. Regular monitoring is required.

Important Reminder

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use Actemra only for the indication prescribed.
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.