Actemra (Tocilizumab)
Actemra (Tocilizumab) is a biologic medicine that suppresses an overactive immune system in order to treat rheumatoid arthritis, giant-cell arteritis and some types of juvenile arthritis.
Actemra works by blocking a receptor on the surface of cells that's related to the body's immune response: the interleukin-6 receptor (IL-6R).
This medication is often given in combination with methotrexate.
It can take 6-12 weeks to feel the effects of Actemra.
Taking Actemra
Actemra is available as an injection (Actemra SC) and as an intravenous infusion (Actemra IV). The injection can be done quickly at home. The infusion is done every 4 weeks at a specialized infusion clinic.
The manufacturer of Actemra offers a support program to Canadian patients that are prescribed the medication:
Patient support program enrolment formsImportant Tests and Risks
Science
Safety
Actemra Video
Watch rheumatologist Dr. Andy Thompson introduce Actemra in a short 3-minute video:
Drug Identification Number (DIN)
02350092 (IV)
02350106 (IV)
02350114 (IV)
02424770 (SC)